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Traveling with cannabis purchased in Michigan: What to know before you drive, fly

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Traveling with cannabis purchased in Michigan: What to know before you drive, fly

Summer is here and for those looking forward to a vacation — or those planning a last-minute trip — purchasing and consuming cannabis may be a part of your itinerary.

The recreational use of cannabis was legalized in Michigan in 2018, and there are dispensaries where consumers can purchase marijuana all over the state and specifically in popular tourist destinations such as Detroit, Ann Arbor and Traverse City.

The cannabis landscape in the U.S. is rapidly changing with other states legalizing cannabis for recreational use, like Ohio did in 2023. Meanwhile, the Drug Enforcement Administration is considering changing the classification of marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, which means cannabis would be grouped in with Tylenol with codeine and ketamine — which can be lawfully prescribed as medication — instead of being considered as highly dangerous, addictive and without medical use.

Here’s what you need to know before purchasing and traveling with cannabis.

Can I fly with cannabis?

No. Regardless of where you’re flying to or from, marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products remain illegal under federal law, Jessica Mayle, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, said.

 Products that contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis are allowed.

TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers, Mayle said.

“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,” she said. “It is up to the police as to how they want to handle it.”

Can I drive across state lines with cannabis I purchased in Michigan?

No. Not even to a state where cannabis is also legal, like Ohio, First Lt. Mike Shaw, a spokesperson for the Michigan State Police, said.

It is legal, however, for an out-of-state visitor to buy recreational marijuana in Michigan.

What do I need to know about buying marijuana in Michigan?

Anyone age 21 or older may possess and consume marijuana. You’ll need a driver’s license or some other form of identification to verify your age. 

Recreational cannabis consumers can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis at a time, with no more than 15 grams of concentrate, a super-potent mass made by distilling down desirable parts of the cannabis plant.

Our guide to visiting a dispensary: How to shop for marijuana at metro Detroit marijuana dispensaries

So where can I consume cannabis when I’m vacationing in Michigan?

Michigan state law specifies that any use of cannabis must take place in private, such as the consumer’s own residence, which doesn’t leave many options for people on vacation.

That’s why Andrew McFarlane, founder of Michigan Cannabis Trail, a website that offers information about cannabis experiences in Michigan, suggests staying at a cannabis-friendly B&B. Michigan Cannabis Trail has listings from all over the state, as do other websites like BudandBreakfast.com. McFarlane said it’s important to have the third party confirmation of another website listing the property before booking.

Our guide to cannabis tourism: Cannabis tourism in Michigan is a real thing. Here’s what to know, where to stay

“Staying at a cannabis-friendly property often comes with free flower or edibles, and they can also give you tips on the best places to shop and for hikes and other ways to enjoy your visit,” McFarlane said in an email.

He also suggests checking out some kind of cannabis event when traveling, which can range from festivals to yoga retreats and even wrestling matches. His website has a calendar listing cannabis events.

Contact Adrienne Roberts: amroberts@freepress.com

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