Is CBD legal to transport across regions?

Cannabidiol oil, or CBD oil, is a business that is expected to reach a value of $20 billion by 2024, and recently, its transport across regions has been allowed.

According to the 2018 Farm Bill, the transfer of hemp extracted CBD oils across the US is permitted.

However, this does not apply to all states. Some are firm in their ban on transferring alternative CBD oils, meaning those extracted from marijuana.

Below, we'll explain the basics of the (il)legality of traveling with CBD oils in your luggage. Let's see which countries are for and against transporting these oils from a widely used cannabis plant.

CBD oil has become known for its medicinal and therapeutic uses. Over the past couple of years, this plant has become an integral part of many homes as anti-anxiety medicine and a supplement to a vegan diet.

Before we touch on the topic of transportation, it is essential to mention the diversity of CBD products. They come in oils, capsules, drops, creams, gels, and so forth.

Since CBD is no longer considered a controlled drug, its transport is legal across regions. However, respecting the 2018 Farm Bill, the transporter must meet some requirements before crossing the border.

One requirement is that the THC percentage mustn't be higher than 0.3.

So, before you pack up your CBD oils and head on your way, here are the top three facts you should know about its legality.

●      CBD that is derived from hemp is legal.

In 2008, Congress passed a bill allowing individuals to cultivate, consume and purchase these products without any strict regulations preventing it. However, the only catch was that these products had to be derived from industrial hemp.

As we mentioned, high THC levels are often associated with traditional marijuana, making it almost illegal to consume and transport.

Cannabis oils are derived from the plant's fibers. The medical effects of both of these substances are beneficial; however, CBD oils offer a more stable reaction, while THC is associated with euphoric effects.

Hence the strict measure for THC in these products. 

●      CBD extracted from marijuana puts you at risk of being detained.

If you're familiar with the law, you should know that a product exceeding 0.3% of THC is banned. It relates to the 2018 Farm Bill prohibiting transporting products extracted from traditional marijuana.

The Transport Security Administration (TSA) is a security body responsible for maintaining safety among aircraft travelers. So, travellers caught with a product that exceeds the permitted measure put themselves at risk of being detained. 

It is vital that, before boarding, you should take a moment to read the product's composition and ensure that the region you're traveling to allows CBD oils. 

●      CBD legality is highly dependent on your destination.

In general, CBD oils are regulated by law and are legal in most states, however, with certain conditions. In some states, though, the rules are stricter.

For instance, in California, it is forbidden for CBD hemp derived products to be added to animal food. In Idaho, on the other hand, CBD extracted from marijuana is entirely illegal.

Informing travelers about the destination and its rules and regulations before they head over there will help them avoid inconveniences and have their CBD products confiscated.

Moving on, we'd like to draw your attention to two types of states regarding CBD transportation: legal states and conditionally legal states.

In legal states, residents are 100% free to purchase, consume and cultivate CBD products. They'll be able to find these products almost everywhere: supermarkets, online shops, dispensaries, etc.

States currently hold the legal status are Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Washington D.C., Vermont, and Washington.

On the other hand, we have conditionally legal states. These states are usually considered legal gray areas, as they often follow the rules regarding CBD products.

These states are currently in a "transition process," so naturally, getting a hold of and moving around with these products might be more challenging than with 100% legal states.

Currently, the most talked about conditionally legal states are Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Los Angeles, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, and Iowa. The list goes on, but we're hoping for a positive overturn in most states. 

●      The future of CBD products.

Altogether, it is essential to remember that CBD oils are legal in all states, but to varying degrees. While some states allow 100% use of this product, others are more strict in their rules. The important thing for travelers is to be informed about the destination and the authorities there.

Currently, the most significant responsibility falls on the FDA, which will be in charge of further regulation and official statements regarding the sale and consumption of CBD oils.

It's easy to assume that traveling with a product like this can't be easy. However, what is essential is that by following the rules and reading the back of your product, you can save yourself from the risk of having your CBD oils confiscated and you being detained.

Last but not least, the situation is bound to change, and some states will likely prevail and take the status of legal states.

We'll keep you posted on the changes, but until then, be careful.