Traveling requires knowing both local and international laws regarding medical marijuana. Many are still unaware that although legal in certain states and countries, marijuana remains classified as a controlled substance under federal law and this may create difficulties while traveling with it. There are ways around these problems; this article will explore these methods of travel with cannabis.
Can You Travel with Marijuana?
Determining whether it is possible for you to travel with medical marijuana depends on many factors, including what mode of transport and state laws that pertain to your destination state. Driving should present no issues if kept within your car and in accordance with all state/federal road rules/regulations when on the road; but flying can make matters more complicated.
TSA (Transportation Security Administration), responsible for passenger security at airports, may conduct random bag searches during airport screening to detect marijuana and other drugs; any illegal substances detected must be reported. Due to this requirement of law, it’s wise to avoid carrying cannabis products when traveling by plane.
Traveling by train, bus or ferry reduces the chances of your cannabis being discovered; however it’s still essential that you abide by all rules and regulations regarding such forms of transport, storing any substances safely inside your bag or separate container if applicable. Be mindful when taking public transportation in New York City that smoking weed on subways and commuter trains is prohibited so use these forms with care!
Medical marijuana has long been used to treat chronic pain, sleep disturbances, nausea and vomiting, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as muscle spasms, fibromyalgia symptoms and some symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. Research into other conditions such as glaucoma and hepatitis C remains limited and it remains uncertain whether medical cannabis aids these conditions or not.
While some states offer reciprocity programs that permit residents to use medical marijuana in other states, it’s still wise to carry your MMJ prescription with you when traveling regardless of where you’re heading. Should law enforcement ever detain you for questioning regarding your documents and request legal help if needed. Therefore, generally it is safer if only traveling with medical marijuana is legal where you reside; nonetheless this article should give some insight into what to expect when traveling with MMJ.