Is Travelling With Medical Marijuana Legal In New York?

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No, it is no longer illegal for residents of New York State to travel with Medical Marijuana if it’s under 3 ounces. The State is also one of the pioneers in legalizing Marijuana for recreational use within the state, as long as you’re 21 years or older.

The critical thing to note here however is that Marijuana is still illegal on the federal level and travelling recklessly with Marijuana can lead you to get into trouble for violating federal laws.

Medical Marijuana Laws in New York

The Marijuana Laws in New York can be divided into two categories. The Recreational Marijuana Laws and the Medical Marijuana Laws.

As per the Medical Marijuana Laws, any person older than 21 years of age can possess and consume Medical Marijuana from a state-certified dispensary. This includes smokable Cannabis as well. If you are a minor, you require a caregiver to make the purchase for you. Medical Marijuana Cardholders can also grow their own Cannabis at home.

As per the Recreational Marijuana Laws, you’re eligible to possess and consume small amounts of Marijuana, (up to 3 ounces) if you’re 21 years or above.

Eligibility and Requirements for Traveling with Medical Marijuana

Within the State of New York, you’re eligible to possess and travel with your Medical Marijuana-based medications if you have a valid state-issued Medical Marijuana Card. Also, for people consuming Marijuana for recreational purposes, the state of New York allows them to carry and possess up to 3 ounces of Marijuana.

But, the important thing to note here is that these are the laws confined within the boundary of New York State. The federal laws and many other state laws aren’t that lenient when traveling outside of New York with Marijuana so you need to take a good look at your options beforehand.

Transportation Guidelines and Restrictions

If you don’t have a valid Medical Marijuana Card, the first guideline to follow is to make that you don’t carry more than 3 ounces of Marijuana during your travel within the state. Traveling out-of-state with Marijuana in possession is kind of out of the question as you can be held accountable for Marijuana possession as per the federal law with or without a Medical Marijuana Card.

Also, don’t try to put Marijuana in your checking bags as that simply increases the chance of random checking and getting caught for illegal possession of Marijuana.

Legal Protections and Documentation for Traveling with Medical Marijuana

If you’re someone outside of the US, you need to have a valid Medical Marijuana prescription and consumption issued by your home country’s respective authorities. Having valid documentation may get you legal protection against Marijuana possession and consumption laws here in the US.

For US residents traveling within the country, it is important to have a valid Medical Marijuana Card and to be sure that the state you’re traveling to does allow Medical Marijuana consumption or possession. Even with a valid Medical Marijuana Card, you may be charged for illegal possession and consumption of Medical Marijuana as per federal law.

Also Read: The 5 Types of Legal Cannabis In New York

FAQs

Does New York Accept Out-Of-State Medical Marijuana Cards?

No, the state of New York doesn’t accept out-of-state Medical Marijuana cards yet.

Is It Legal To Carry Marijuana In New York?

Yes, it is legal to carry and consume Marijuana in New York for both recreational and medical purposes.

Is Marijuana No Longer Siezed At New York Airports?

If you don’t have a valid Medical Marijuana Card and have less than 3 ounces of Marijuana in your possession then yes, your Marijuana will no longer be seized at New York Airports.