TSA Warns Travelers With Marijuana at American Airports Ahead of 4/20

As many travelers prepare for the upcoming unofficial April 20 holiday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is offering advice for those hitting the road with marijuana.

TSA officials revealed that when a security officer discovers marijuana on a traveler or in their luggage—the agency is not actively looking for cannabis or other illegal drugs—they refer the matter to local law enforcement, regardless of each state’s stance.

Since marijuana remains illegal under federal law, agents have been advised to handle the discovery of the controlled substance the same way at every airport, with TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers saying the agency “is more concerned about terrorism and security threats to aircraft and passengers.”

“It is important for me to note that TSA’s response to the discovery of marijuana is the same in every state and at every airport – regardless of whether marijuana has been or is going to be legalized,” Dankers continued. “This also covers medical marijuana.”

Police called to the scene will determine whether to initiate a criminal investigation or if the matter will be dropped and the person will be permitted to carry the contraband, based on local laws regarding the legality of marijuana.

Other cannabis-infused products remain illegal under federal law unless they contain no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis or are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They will be handled in the same way as standard cannabis.

Last year, a study found that 65 percent of Americans said they would travel to a city or country to experience its licensed marijuana market.