Can you fly with medical marijuana in Texas? What TSA’s policy actually says
Before heading to the airport, many travelers double-check that everything packed in their bags is allowed through security.
But recent reports claiming the Transportation Security Administration updated its “What Can I Bring?” guidance on medical marijuana have left some travelers wondering whether the rules have changed.
The reports gained traction after the Trump administration announced plans to reclassify certain medical marijuana products.
The TSA says its policy hasn’t changed, but many travelers are still left wondering what the rules are for flying with marijuana in Texas.
Here’s what to know.
Can you legally fly with marijuana in Texas?
For most travelers, no. Recreational marijuana is illegal in Texas, and it remains illegal under federal law.
However, Texas does allow people with qualifying conditions to access low-THC cannabis products through the state’s Compassionate Use Program.
For those travelers, TSA says medical marijuana can be packed in both carry on bags and checked luggage, but only if it meets certain requirements.
According to the agency, that includes products containing no more than 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis and products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What happens if TSA finds marijuana in my bag?
TSA’s medical marijuana guidance says its officers are focused on transportation security and aren’t specifically searching for drugs during screenings.
“But if any illegal substance or evidence of criminal activity is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer,” the guidance said.
What happens next can depend on the airport, the type of product involved and the laws that apply in that jurisdiction.
Because airports operate under federal authority, travelers could still face legal consequences if authorities determine a marijuana product violates state or federal law.
“The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint,” the guidance notes.
