As of December 7, 2023, Ohioans 21 years and older can legally consume and possess marijuana. With recreational marijuana now legal in Ohio, the state joins the ranks of 24 others that have embraced marijuana for adult use.
With recreational dispensaries not expected to open until late summer or early fall of 2024, many are left wondering about the intricacies of traveling with marijuana, especially through airports. This article delves into what you need to know about flying with marijuana in Ohio and why obtaining a medical marijuana card might be beneficial.
Navigating TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has clear guidelines regarding what can be carried through their checkpoints. When it comes to marijuana, the situation becomes more complex. According to TSA guidelines, passengers can carry products that contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis, such as certain CBD products. However, most marijuana products, especially those meant for recreational use, do not meet this criterion.
As per the TSA, you are allowed to travel with the following marijuana-related products:
CBD Products: Must contain no more than 0.3% THC.
FDA-Approved Products: Epidiolex, Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet. These are primarily used for specific medical conditions and are not your typical recreational marijuana products.
TSA agents are primarily focused on identifying security threats. They do not actively search for marijuana or other drugs. However, if they come across marijuana during the screening process, they are required to report it to local law enforcement. This can lead to various outcomes depending on the state's laws and the discretion of the authorities.
Flying from Ohio
While Ohio has legalized recreational marijuana, federal laws still classify it as a Schedule I controlled substance. This means that regardless of Ohio's state laws, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level. Hence, attempting to fly with marijuana from Ohio can lead to complications.
Different airports have varying policies regarding marijuana:
Amnesty Boxes: Some airports, such as Chicago O’Hare, provide amnesty boxes where travelers can dispose of their marijuana before going through security.
Airport Police: At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), airport police may not have jurisdiction to arrest individuals complying with state law, but TSA checkpoints remain under federal jurisdiction.
Most airlines, including major carriers like Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, prohibit passengers from transporting marijuana on their flights. Violation of these policies can result in passengers being denied boarding or facing legal consequences.
Traveling to Ohio
Even if you are traveling to Ohio from another state where marijuana is legal, you face the same federal restrictions. Transporting marijuana across state lines is illegal under federal law, and being caught with it at an airport can result in significant legal trouble.
In Ohio, possessing marijuana is legal for adults over 21, but this does not extend to airports, which are under federal jurisdiction. Thus, traveling with marijuana into or out of Ohio remains fraught with legal risks.
Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Ohio provides several advantages. Patients with a medical marijuana card card can possess and use marijuana legally under state law. This provides a level of legal protection that recreational users do not have, especially in contexts where federal law is involved, such as air travel.
Medical marijuana dispensaries offer products that are specifically designed to meet medical standards. These products are often subject to rigorous testing and quality control, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatments.
For those suffering from chronic conditions, medical marijuana can be a vital component of their treatment plan. Ohio’s medical marijuana card program allows patients with qualifying conditions to access the medication they need without fear of legal repercussions.
Be Informed and Stay Safe
Traveling with marijuana, even within a state where it is legal, involves navigating a complex web of state and federal laws. In Ohio, while recreational marijuana is legal, the federal restrictions mean that flying with marijuana can lead to legal challenges. For those who rely on marijuana for medical reasons, obtaining a medical marijuana card card offers legal protection and access to high-quality products.
As the legal landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest regulations and guidelines is crucial. Whether you are a resident of Ohio or visiting, understanding the risks and rules associated with traveling with marijuana will help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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