Despite the fact that an ever-increasing number of states are legalizing or loosening cannabis laws, there is still considerable confusion about flying with this non-intoxicating compound. Obviously, common sense tells you to leave the edibles and joints at home, but why is this the case with CBD products? Research has shown us that CBD can help relieve the symptoms of numerous conditions including anxiety, depression, and pain. However, the FDA still views CBD as an illegal substance . . . to an extent.
Legal Concerns with Airports and CBD Products
The uncertainty that currently surrounds CBD or Cannabidiol has numerous consumers understandably confused. After all, you can find it in drug and health food stores; you can get it in your smoothie at some juice stores; you can even add it to your morning coffee if you want. Nevertheless, people are often detained for having CBD in their possession, whether they’re flying or not.
Due to the lack of clarity regarding CBD, the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA as they are more commonly referred to, changed its stance about the substance and quietly lifted their ban on flying with it. It has now stated that people can travel with the products containing CBD as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC or as approved by FDA. As a result, passengers are now allowed to bring CBD oils, medications, and other CBD related products on board in their carry-on luggage without fear of reprisal.
So why all the Confusion?
There are certain factors that play a role here. First, the FDA approved Epidioex (a cannabis-based drug) for two epileptic conditions that typically affect younger children, namely Dravet’s Syndrome and Lenox-Gastaut Syndrome. Basically, the FDA was reserving their right to classify CBD as a medication under these circumstances.
Second, when President Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill, Scott Gottlieb, the former commissioner of the FDA stated that he was concerned that sellers of CBD products were touting its ability to cure, prevent, or treat diseases. Consequently, he wanted CBD to undergo the FDA’s drug approval process of human and animal use.
In the meantime, CBD consumers have been unknowingly participating in a thriving market where the compound can easily be ordered online or purchased at drug and health food stores. Essentially, the FDA looks the other way in these cases. Is it any wonder then that consumers, law enforcement, and the TSA are so confused?
If you’ve recently had any issues when flying and having CBD products with you, please share your experience with Tank Glass by calling us at (323) 364-7952 or e-mailing us at support@tankglass.com today. And if you are looking for beakers and glass bongs for enhanced smoking experience, browse our website today.