Understanding the Laws Surrounding Cannabis Possession and Interstate Travel

While medical and recreational marijuana use has been legalized in Arizona since 2020, marijuana use and possession is still illegal under federal law. It’s important to understand the federal regulations regarding traveling with marijuana or using marijuana in other states, even if you qualify for protections for medical marijuana use.
Janet Altschuler is a highly experienced and qualified criminal defense attorney in Tucson, AZ who can help you understand the laws surrounding cannabis possession and interstate travel and defend you if you are charged with marijuana possession in Arizona.
Understanding Arizona Marijuana Laws
In Arizona, adults over 21 can possess up to 28 grams of marijuana and cultivate up to six marijuana plants in their homes. They can transfer up to one ounce of marijuana to another person over 21 and can possess drug paraphernalia. Qualifying patients diagnosed with debilitating medical conditions can possess and use up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
Arizona Penalties for Non-Medical Marijuana Use or Possession
You cannot use marijuana on public transport or in public places. If you are charged with illegal possession of marijuana, you can face civil penalties and felony charges. It’s important to hire an experienced criminal lawyer or DUI lawyer in Tucson if you are charged with marijuana use or possession.
Understanding Marijuana Laws State-by-State
Each state has its own marijuana laws, and some may allow marijuana for medical use but not for other purposes. It’s important to know what the state laws are if you plan on using or possessing marijuana in another state. We recommend that you check marijuana possession laws by state if you plan on using marijuana or possessing marijuana while traveling.
Traveling from State to State with Marijuana
Marijuana is a schedule 1 drug federally and is regulated under the federal controlled substances act. If you travel across state lines with marijuana you are subject to federal laws and having a medical marijuana card from your own state may not protect you.
Flying with Prescription Medical Marijuana
Possession of marijuana is a federal crime, and airports and airlines are under federal jurisdiction. You may be arrested for bringing marijuana into an airport or onto a plane, even if you have a medical marijuana card.
Federal Penalties for Traveling to Another State with Medical Marijuana
The federal penalties you face when traveling to another state with medical marijuana can depend on how much you are traveling with, your prior criminal record, and what other charges you are facing. A misdemeanor penalty can result in up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $1,000. A felony can result in five years or more in prison and fines of $250,000 and higher.
If you have been charged with marijuana possession or a marijuana DUI in Arizona, you need to hire a lawyer for drug charges in Tucson, AZ. Janet Altschuler is an experienced criminal defense attorney, and she and her team can help you with the best defense against drug charges and uphold your rights in court. To set up a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 520-247-1789 or 520-200-5003.