Wagswoofs – In a recent development, Los Angeles International Airport has revised its policy with regards to the possession of marijuana. As per the new policy, passengers can now carry a legal amount of cannabis in their carry-on luggage, in collaboration with LAPD. This change has been made in accordance with Proposition 64 passed by California. However, travelers should exercise caution and be aware of certain precautions before carrying marijuana while traveling.
Know the Limits
If you plan to fly through LAX airport and you carry cannabis, it is essential to know the legal limit of possession. Going beyond the allowed amount may result in fines and even arrest as determined by the LAPD. To make this clear, LAX has mentioned the legal possession limits for marijuana in their press release on traveling with it.
As per federal law, possession of marijuana, including in federal airspace, is prohibited. However, with the passing of Proposition 64 in California on January 1, 2018, individuals aged 21 years or older are allowed to possess up to 28.5 grams of marijuana and 8 grams of concentrated marijuana for personal use. The Los Angeles Airport Police Department follows Proposition 64 guidelines and allows passengers to carry up to 28.5 grams of marijuana and 8 grams of concentrated marijuana when traveling through LAX. It’s important to note that marijuana laws differ from state to state, so it’s advisable to check the laws of the states you’re planning to visit.
Local Destination Laws
The statement from LAX airport highlights certain contingencies that passengers must keep in mind before traveling with cannabis. To avoid any legal issues, it is advisable to carry your marijuana stash only in your carry-on luggage if you are aware that the state you are flying to permits medical or recreational cannabis. Alternatively, it is crucial to ensure that cannabis is decriminalized at your final destination, at the very least.
If a state prohibits cannabis use in any form, individuals caught possessing marijuana within that state could face prosecution according to the state law. It is important to be cautious when traveling to a state that does not permit cannabis use as drug-sniffing dogs at baggage claim could lead to undesired consequences. Even flights originating from states where marijuana is legal may be targeted by law enforcement officials, so travelers need to be aware of the potential risks.
Smoking Areas
Although public smoking is not encouraged at LAX, it is not strictly prohibited by law. However, passengers are advised to only smoke in designated areas outside the terminal. Lighting up a joint may not be the best idea, but using a vape pen that is less noticeable should be acceptable.
If you’re a smoker, it’s vital to know that smoking in California’s airports is strictly prohibited. Violating this law can lead to arrest, so it’s crucial to avoid smoking in the terminal or on the plane. Additionally, tampering with smoke alarms inside airplane bathrooms can result in federal charges. To avoid any legal consequences, it’s best to indulge in smoking before coming to the airport or outside the terminal.
Getting Through Security
Navigating through the security line at LAX airport can be quite a hassle, especially if you’re carrying marijuana with you. To avoid any unwanted attention, it’s best to remain discreet and avoid giving off a strong cannabis odor. While it’s worth noting that the TSA is a federal agency, it’s not their primary objective to search for marijuana specifically. However, if you do happen to raise any red flags during the screening process, they may investigate further.
In most cases, airport security personnel focus on detecting big metal items and large amounts of liquids, rather than cannabis. It’s crucial to keep all cannabis-related products in your carry-on baggage and not in your pockets. The body scan technology is highly effective in detecting any concealed items on your body. It’s not advisable to keep cannabis in your shoes as it can easily draw attention to you and your belongings.
Dealing with TSA
If TSA happens to pull you aside during the security check, it’s crucial to know how to handle the situation. If they search your carry-on and discover cannabis products, LAPD is likely to be called in to handle the matter. However, if you’re carrying marijuana within the legal limits, they may permit you to board your flight.
If you want a better outcome when interacting with law enforcement, it’s best to remain cordial instead of being confrontational. You can still exercise your rights while being respectful. Ultimately, it’s up to the officers to decide how they want to handle the situation, but their recent policy change should allow you to bring your cannabis in your carry-on while flying.
Read More:
