While marijuana legalization is gaining traction across many states, federal maritime law tells a very different story. Under U.S. federal law, marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, the same category as heroin and LSD. This strict classification applies not only on land but also at sea—creating serious legal consequences for mariners, passengers, and vessel operators.
At Latti Associates LLC, our decades of experience as maritime injury lawyers have shown us how federal drug laws can impact mariners’ livelihoods, licenses, and careers—even in cases where no harm occurred. If you work or travel on the water, it’s critical to understand how these laws apply.
Federal Law Overrides State Legalization at Sea
Even if marijuana is legal in your state, federal law governs U.S. waterways. The U.S. Coast Guard—tasked with enforcing these laws—patrols both federal and state waters, meaning they can board vessels to conduct safety inspections and investigate possible violations.
Key facts:
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Possession or use of marijuana on a vessel in federally patrolled waters is a federal crime.
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Medical marijuana exemptions do not exist under federal maritime law.
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The Coast Guard can seize marijuana found on a vessel regardless of state legalization status.
U.S. Maritime Laws Apply Even in International Waters
Many mariners mistakenly believe that traveling into international waters frees them from U.S. regulations. However, if your vessel is U.S.-flagged (registered in the United States), federal law continues to apply no matter where you are in the world.
The Coast Guard’s authority includes:
- Boarding U.S.-registered vessels in international waters
- Inspecting commercial and recreational boats in state-controlled waters
- Issuing citations and pursuing criminal charges for marijuana possession or use
How Marijuana Laws Intersect with Maritime Injury Claims
If you are injured at sea and test positive for THC—even from a legal or medical source—it could be used against you in a Jones Act or maritime injury claim. Shipowners and insurers often attempt to argue that marijuana use contributed to an accident, potentially reducing or denying compensation.
At Latti Associates LLC, we have represented maritime workers facing this very challenge. We understand both the complexities of maritime law and the strategies used by vessel owners to avoid paying injury claims.
Protecting Your Career and Your Rights
To safeguard your employment, license, and potential injury claims:
- Avoid using marijuana or cannabis-derived products while working in the maritime industry.
- Be cautious with CBD products unless they are verified THC-free.
- Seek immediate legal advice if facing charges or testing issues related to marijuana use.
About Latti Associates LLC
Based in Boston with a nationwide practice, Latti Associates LLC has been fighting for injured maritime workers and their families for decades. Led by trial lawyer Carolyn Latti, we handle cases under the Jones Act, unseaworthiness doctrine, and other maritime laws—recovering over $100 million for our clients. Whether you are a merchant seaman, fisherman, or offshore worker, we know how to protect your rights at sea and in court.
