Contrary to recent claims, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has not updated its policy to allow medical marijuana on commercial flights. The agency’s policy has remained the same since at least June 2019, permitting medical marijuana products that meet federal requirements in both carry-on and checked bags.
The confusion arose from an update to the TSA’s webpage on medical marijuana in April 2026, which removed some details regarding cannabis possession under federal law. However, the agency’s spokesperson confirmed to Snopes that the policy has not changed. The updated webpage still states that medical marijuana is allowed in checked and carry-on bags “with special instructions.”
The TSA’s policy is focused on security and detecting potential threats to aviation and passengers, rather than actively searching for illegal drugs. If a TSA officer discovers illegal drugs during a screening, they may refer the matter to local law enforcement to determine any legal consequences.
The agency has allowed medical marijuana products that meet federal definitions of hemp or are FDA-approved since 2019. However, nearly all forms of medical marijuana are not officially allowed under federal law, despite being legal in most states.
Federal marijuana policy is undergoing major changes in 2026, which may explain why the TSA does not want to list specific federal laws and regulations on its website. The Department of Justice recently reclassified state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug, and Congress has narrowed the definition of hemp in a law set to take effect in late 2026.
In summary, the TSA’s policy on medical marijuana has not changed, and passengers are still subject to federal laws and regulations. If your medical marijuana is legal on the federal level, there is no issue, but all other medical marijuana is not officially allowed.
