With each state having different laws and regulations for marijuana use, it can be difficult to keep up with what is legal and what isn’t. If you were to travel to a state where marijuana is legal, purchase it legally, and bring it back home to Florida, is that considered legal possession?
Federal Law about Marijuana
To answer this question, you must first know federal laws regarding marijuana use. Federally, marijuana is still fully illegal. It is a Schedule I substance meaning it is regarded as being one of the most dangerous and likely to be abused drugs. This is confusing to many people as other states have legalized not only medical marijuana but also recreational marijuana.
Though states have separate laws, federal law reigns supreme whenever there is confusion or overlap. Additionally, federal law covers all offenses that involve multiple states or crossing state borders.
Bringing Marijuana to Florida
Purchasing legal marijuana and transporting it back into Florida is a criminal offense. In fact, transporting legal marijuana into any other state is illegal – even if the destination state also recognizes marijuana as a legal drug. This is because traveling across state borders with marijuana is a federal crime that can result in drug trafficking charges.
Drug trafficking is punishable by:
- Multiple years in prison
- Fines
- Probation
- Mandatory drug counseling
- Driver’s license suspension
If you’re planning on vacationing to a state with legal marijuana, know that attempting to bring it back home can lead to serious legal consequences.
Fort Lauderdale Drug Crimes Defense
If you are facing marijuana charges, Hager & Schwartz, P.A. can help you form a strong legal defense. We understand how frustrating it can be to face charges for possession of a drug that is legal in numerous other states and we want to help ensure your marijuana charge does not jeapordize your future. To discuss your case further, call us at (954) 840-8713.
Â