What Travelers Need to Know about Federal Cannabis Laws

If you’re thinking about traveling with cannabis, here’s the deal: it’s still illegal under federal law and many states, no matter the laws in your particular state. Even if you’re moving between places where it’s legal, like California to Nevada, taking it across state lines puts you on the wrong side of federal law and could be illegal in some states in between. If you’re caught, you could be facing serious penalties. However, there are still ways you can protect yourself.

Federal Classification of Cannabis

Oh, the irony of federal cannabis laws! Despite a growing number of states giving cannabis the green light for medical and recreational use, it’s federally classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This puts it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification is based on criteria that include a supposed high potential for abuse and the lack of accepted safety for its use under medical supervision. As a result, any possession, sale, or transportation of cannabis is illegal under federal law, which can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

The Risks of Crossing State Lines

Here’s a travel tip that might save you some headaches: transporting your state-legal cannabis across state lines is a definite no-go. Federal law does not recognize state legalization, so that road trip from California to Nevada with your stash is technically a federal offense. Yes, even if you’re just crossing from one green state to another, you’re rolling the dice with federal law. Even if it seems unlikely that the DEA will come knocking on your door, it’s still important to keep that in mind.

The more likely risk when transporting cannabis across state lines is traveling through states where cannabis is still illegal, especially if you are transporting smaller amounts of cannabis. States, like Texas, where cannabis is still illegal, are much more likely than the federal government to file criminal charges against anyone caught with cannabis. This is true even if someone is coming from a state where cannabis is legal and going to another state where it is.

Proving Legal Ownership Within States

If you’re a registered medical cannabis user, remember, details matter. If traveling in a state where cannabis is legal, keep your cannabis in containers with labels clear enough to pass muster at any security check. These labels should show your name, your doctor’s name, and where you bought it. Proper labeling isn’t just about being organized; it’s your best defense in proving that your possession is legal under state law, should you ever need to.

However things are complicated if you pass through or stop in a state where cannabis is still illegal. If an officer sees your medical cannabis card will be used as probable cause to justify a search of your car. Labels on the packaging, or receipts showing what the substances are can make the state’s burden to prove exactly what a substance is easier. This is especially true when people are caught with cannabis in Texas where some forms of cannabis are legal now, but other forms of cannabis are still illegal.

Legal Implications and Seeking Advice

The clash between state freedoms and federal restrictions and the various state rules about cannabis is more complex than most realize. If you are questioned about your possession of cannabis, the situation can escalate quickly without clear proof of legal ownership and a clear understanding of the complex patchwork of cannabis laws across the country. As with all legal matters, always invoke your right to remain silent, and utilize your right to an attorney. Your attorney will provide the necessary guidance and ensure that your rights are protected. For individuals who rely on medical cannabis, compliance with all legal guidelines is crucial.

Need advice on traveling with cannabis or ensuring you’re compliant with the law? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Ryan Brown Attorney at Law, P.L.L.C. at (806) 372-5711 today to schedule a consultation and get the guidance you need.