Marijuana has been legalized for recreational use in more and more states over the years. They are still in the minority, but the movement has been gaining steam and many states have been enjoying these laws for years.
That being said, Ohio does not yet have recreational marijuana. Nearby states, like Michigan and Illinois, do.
As such, you may be wondering about transferring marijuana between states. Maybe you have friends in Michigan and you can buy it when you visit them. If you purchase it legally, are you allowed to cross state lines back into Ohio? Or perhaps you’re going on a trip to Colorado. Can you buy some on your vacation and bring it home?
Entering another state is illegal
You actually cannot cross state lines, as doing so with marijuana is typically illegal. Part of the reason for this is that marijuana remains federally illegal, despite some recent steps to reduce the ramifications. But as long as it is federally illegal, then crossing state lines with it in your possession violates those laws.
What if it’s legal in both states?
Interestingly, it doesn’t actually make a difference if it’s legal in both states. Even states that share a border are not allowed to transfer the product across that border. If the Ohio laws changed tomorrow, you could not drive from Michigan back into Ohio with marijuana in your possession. It would be legal on both sides, but there are still federal regulations and restrictions that must be followed.
As you can see, you can do something that you believe to be completely legal and still find yourself facing serious drug charges. Make sure you know about all the legal options at your disposal.