TSA updates rules permitting passengers to fly with medical marijuana
OAN Staff Jenna Lee
4:16 PM – Wednesday, May 20, 2026
American travelers are now allowed to fly with medical marijuana following the TSA’s updated rules on carrying the drug. Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche signed the final order on April 23rd, four days prior to the TSA’s website update.
The TSA website, updated without fanfare on April 27th, notes that medical marijuana is now permitted in checked bags and carry-on bags, subject to “special instructions.” However, the page does not provide details on what those specific instructions entail, such as the maximum amount of medical marijuana allowed per person on a flight.
“TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance or evidence of criminal activity is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer,” states the website.
The updated rule came after the state-licensed medical marijuana was officially reclassified from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. The federal government now recognizes the substance as having moderate-to-low potential for dependence, rather than having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
While the decision legitimizes medical marijuana programs in the 40 U.S. states that have adopted them, allowing state-licensed producers and distributors to register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), it does not federally legalize recreational marijuana.
Adult-use cannabis remains a Schedule I substance federally. For qualifying medical operators, however, the shift significantly eases research restrictions and offers substantial federal tax relief.
Ultimately, The TSA emphasizes that its officers still retain final discretion at the checkpoint when deciding whether to allow items, including medical marijuana, past security.
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