photo courtesy of AP
Complicated laws and regulations surrounding marijuana have recently resurfaced as a topic of confusion. Much of the muddled expectations come from many states’ legalization of marijuana, but it’s not currently legal at the federal level. This means that TSA has had to issue specific guidelines surrounding flying with cannabis.
A Twitter post made last year by TSA urged passengers to ask clarifying questions surrounding their travel while carrying cannabis products. As an exception for total restriction, the only cannabis products allowed on a plane are those approved by TSA or products containing less than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis carried in checked and carry-on bags.
According to TSA’s website, officers are not particularly interested in busting people for carrying marijuana on flights. The company explained, “TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law to local, state or federal authorities. TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs. Still, if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.”
They continued to declare that the TSA officers at the specific airport had discretion on what was allowed through the checkpoints,
“The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.”
In fact, the Los Angeles International Airport has issued a unique set of processes compared to others. The LA Airport Police Division reminded passengers, “As of January 1, 2018, California law allows for individuals 21 years of age or older to possess up to 28.5 grams of marijuana and 8 grams of concentrated marijuana for personal consumption. [LA Airport TSA has] no
jurisdiction to arrest individuals if they are complying with state law.” At worst, passengers may have to throw away their cannabis product, but no arrests will be made.Generally, when traveling with cannabis products, passengers should check their specific airport’s regulations.