Can you travel with cannabis in the United States of America? While states like Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington may have legalized it, cannabis is still federally prohibited.
So cannabis may be legal in some states. But it is still a controlled substance, according to Washington D.C.
(Even though the residents living in the District of Columbia voted to legalize it in 2015, Congress has denied them access to retail, and so a robust grey market has popped up).
It may be legal to possess and use cannabis within the borders of a legal state, but it is illegal to transport cannabis across state lines.
What About Flying?
So you cannot drive from Colorado to Washington with legal cannabis. But what about if you fly on a direct flight? You’d be taking off from one legal state and landing in another. So what’s the issue?
Unfortunately, even a direct flight from Colorado to Washington counts as crossing state lines. Airports and airlines are federally regulated. Ergo, they’re subject to federal laws.
Like crossing the border to Canada from a legal state, you will face penalties if you have cannabis. The feds consider borders their jurisdiction.
But what if – for example – you fly within Colorado?
Or any other legal state? Therefore, you’re not crossing any state lines.
Travelling with cannabis within Colorado (i.e. not crossing state lines) is valid and legal. When it comes to air travel, a lot will depend on the kind of flying you’ll be doing. And where you’ll be doing it.
For example, LAX has said they won’t go after people with less than an ounce.
However, most airports are federal property. And like the border, federal law will overrule state law, even when it’s unconstitutional.
You can theoretically travel by air within the United States with cannabis. If it’s a small chartered, private plane, and you know the pilot, odds are, there won’t be anyone sniffing around your bags.
But that’s a rare case. And not technically legal. In most cases, you’ll get the Chicago treatment.
O’Hare International Airport has “pot amnesty” boxes by their security checkpoints. The idea is that travellers who may have arrived with legal cannabis products and didn’t realize they couldn’t fly with them have a safe space to trash their goods.
The city of Chicago owns the boxes, and the police maintain them.
But as far as getting caught by security, such as the TSA, your experience may vary. The TSA website states, “TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs.”
Travel with Cannabis in the United States – Different Rules Between States
Further complicating travel with cannabis in the United States is all the different rules between the legal states.
For example, in California, you can carry up to an ounce of cannabis. In Colorado, it’s two ounces. In Maine, it’s three ounces.
And these rules are subject to change. However, since crossing state lines with cannabis is considered illegal, you technically shouldn’t have to worry about how much cannabis you have on you. Any amount is too much, according to the authorities.
Wait – is it really illegal to drive from New York to New Jersey with cannabis?
Yes. If you work in NYC, pick up some weed for the night, and then drive over the George Washington Bridge or through the Lincoln Tunnel to return to your New Jersey home, you’ve committed a federal offense.
Transporting cannabis across state lines is considered a federal offense because cannabis is still a controlled substance under federal law.
But doesn’t this violate states’ rights?
Yes, but thanks to that “Commerce Clause,” Washington D.C. has every opportunity to undermine the state sovereignty.
What About Medical Cannabis or CBD?
Can You Travel with Cannabis in the United States if it’s medical or legal CBD? Technically yes, but there are some things to consider.
So long as your CBD product contains no more than 0.3 percent THC, it is legal to fly with. This is because CBD is legal federally, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.
(If your CBD is in liquid form, you’ll still be bound by whatever carry-on policy the airline or TSA has at the moment).
This area is a little trickier since there is no official federal government medical cannabis program. Thus, no official “medical cannabis I.D.” the TSA can verify.
Generally, you can’t travel on a domestic flight with medical cannabis. Since even medical cannabis is considered a controlled substance by the U.S. feds.
Even if you’re confident a TSA agent won’t confiscate your medical cannabis, some airlines, like American Airlines, have banned all cannabis, including medical cannabis, from flights.
Can You Travel with Cannabis in the United States?
Short answer, no. You can drive from spot to spot within a legal state. And you may be able to travel with cannabis within the United States on a private chartered plane. But in general, you do not want to cross state lines with cannabis. Even if you’re going from one legal state to another.
Even a planned sacrifice can use a little help, here is how marijuana can help you during Lent
Today is Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. This time is observed in many Christian traditions, including Catholic, Lutheran, Moravian, Anglican, United Protestant, and Orthodox. It is usually a 40-day period, which echoes the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert. The time is thought to symbolize testing, trial, and renewal. In addition to donating time, talent and treasure along with self reflection, the true believer believes you should give us something you love. For some it is wine or alcohol, for others it could be more.Here is how cannabis can help you during Lent.
Cannabis use during Lent, a traditional Christian period of fasting and spiritual reflection, is a complex and controversial topic requiring careful consideration. While some may view cannabis as incompatible with Lenten practices, others argue it can potentially aid in spiritual growth and personal reflection when used mindfully. Done correctly, it can help you reach your goals.
Studies suggest cannabis can be used as a replacement for alcohol and can improve overall health. It offers a range of benefits for those seeking to reduce or eliminate their alcohol consumption. CBD and THC drops are becoming popular substitutes, providing natural relaxation without the negative side effects associated with drinking. Unlike alcohol, which can lead to dehydration, impaired judgment, and potential long-term health risks, cannabis promotes relaxation and improved sleep quality without causing hangovers.
Studies suggest cannabis may help individuals maintain alcohol abstinence, with some patients reporting it as an effective substitute. The trend of replacing alcohol with cannabis is growing, with daily cannabis use surpassing daily alcohol use in the United States for the first time. Cannabis-infused beverages are also on the rise, offering a diverse range of options for those looking to socialize without alcohol.
In addition, many adherents of Lent are older, and a key benefit of cannabis is relief. For those dealing with chronic pain or anxiety, cannabis may offer relief without breaking Lenten commitments to abstain from other substances. Medical marijuana users have reported significant improvements in quality of life, pain levels, and overall functioning. This could allow individuals to focus more deeply on their spiritual practices without being hindered by physical discomfort.
Part of the sacrifice is to reflect on the spiritual journey. Cannabis can promote introspection and heightened awareness, which aligns with Lenten goals of self-examination and spiritual growth. However, it’s crucial to approach this mindfully and avoid using cannabis as an escape or distraction from the purpose of Lent.
It hobbles millions – but CBD could be step in the right direction for foot pain.
Roughly 75% of people suffer some type of foot pain at some point. But can CBD provide some foot pain relief? Foot pain can be debilitating, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. Conditions like gout, plantar fasciitis, neuroma, neuropathy, and metatarsalgia are common causes of foot discomfort. While traditional treatments often come with side effects, CBD oil has emerged as a promising alternative for managing foot pain. Here’s why CBD is gaining attention for its potential benefits in alleviating foot-related issues.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a safe option for those seeking pain relief without altering their mental state. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and mood.
Photo by 2H Media via Unsplash
CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, a key factor in many foot pain conditions. By minimizing swelling and redness, CBD can help alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like gout and plantar fasciitis.
CBD’s ability to modulate pain perception makes it effective for managing chronic pain. It can increase levels of anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation, potentially reducing pain perception.
For conditions like neuropathy, where nerve damage leads to pain, CBD’s neuroprotective qualities can help mitigate symptoms. It may reduce neuropathic pain by interacting with receptors in the nervous system.
While more research is needed to fully understand CBD’s effects on chronic pain, existing studies suggest it is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects are mild and include fatigue, decreased appetite, and dry mouth. The FDA has not approved CBD for pain management, but it is approved for certain epilepsy conditions, indicating its potential therapeutic benefits. As research continues to uncover the full potential of CBD, it may become a valuable tool in the arsenal against foot pain, providing comfort and improving quality of life for many.
Valentine’s Day is considered a big night for couples – but if you are single, it can be tough…here are some ways to make it fun
It is day of love, candy, silliness and more….but for some, it is a tough day emotionally. It is one of the busiest restaurant days and flowers and candy abound everywhere you look. But what if you are single or taking a break for the big night. Just because you are single, doesn’t mean you have to hide, rather it gives the chance to do something special for yourself. Here are 5 ideas on having a fun single’s Valentine’s Day.
Gather your closest and/or your most fun friends and celebrate with a Guy/Galentine’s Day party. This can be a fun way to spend time with people you love and appreciate. You can play games, share snacks, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of romantic expectations. It’s a great way to remind yourself that you’re never truly alone on Valentine’s Day.
Treat yourself to a day of pampering. Book a spa appointment or create your own DIY spa day at home with face masks, bubble baths, and your favorite music. Self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to prioritize it. Whether it’s a relaxing bath or a rejuvenating facial, make sure you feel loved and cared for by yourself.
Chill out with cannabis and let your body relax. Watch a movie or lose yourself in music. marijuana taps into our minds in all sorts of ways, many of which seem to positively influence how we perceive things, including music. It also accesses a special neurotransmitter system, the endocannabinoid system, which regulates appetite, pain, mood and memory. The way the plant activates this system explains a lot of the unique effects. The THC in marijuana can increase dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.
Indulge in hobbies or interests. It can a be a chance to spend time iwth a new or existing activity you love, but might night share with others. Whether it’s gaming, cooking, or learning a new language, stepping out of your comfort zone can be incredibly rewarding. You might discover a new passion or talent, and it’s a great way to keep your day exciting and productive
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by taking a solo trip or exploring new places in your city. Whether it’s hiking a scenic trail, visiting a local museum, or trying a new restaurant, getting out and experiencing new things can be incredibly liberating. It’s a chance to focus on yourself and enjoy and discover new things.