TSA to allow some travelers to fly with CBD, hemp products
LAS VEGAS NV June 6 2019 The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has made changes that could allow some people to travel with CBD and hemp products.
The “What Can I Bring” section on TSA’s website now reads ‘yes’ next to medical marijuana but with special instructions. The new update allows passengers to fly with medical marijuana and CBD products, but only if they’re derived from hemp and FDA approved.
“CBD itself has no intoxicating effects. CBD is going to be more for pain relief, anxiety relief. It does things like reducing inflammation in joints,” said David Dragun, an employee at NUWU dispensary.
Even though TSA is making exceptions, certain CBD products are still illegal under federal law. News 3 reached out to TSA, asking for more clarification.
They sent the following statement:
Possession of marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil products, remain illegal under federal law. TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law, including possession of marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products. TSA was made aware of an FDA-approved drug that contains CBD oil for children who experience seizures from pediatric epilepsy. To avoid confusion as to whether families can travel with this drug, TSA immediately updated TSA.gov once we became aware of the issue.
Transportation Security Officers are also being briefed, but since this is a new consideration, there may be some that do not recognize the FDA-approved version.
TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.
They make it clear the final decision on whether CBD products make it on the plane is decided by the TSA agent on duty.
David Dragun, an employee at NUWU Dispensary, said “We do need to find that distinction on how to prove it’s a CBD versus THC thing.”
Any products, even CBD that contains THC, is not allowed on planes. It must be hemp derived.
If you have questions about what you can and can’t travel with check the TSA website or give them a call for clarification.
