Proposed Australian Law Would Set First-Ever THC Limit for Medicated Drivers

A groundbreaking proposal in New South Wales, Australia, could reshape how medicinal cannabis users interact with the law behind the wheel. Since 2016, medical cannabis has been legal in the country, but drivers who use it have faced the same penalties as recreational users. Now, the state government is considering a rule that would allow motorists with a prescription to drive with up to 50 nanograms of THC per milliliter of saliva.

Under the plan, a positive roadside test would trigger an immediate 24-hour driving ban and a requirement to submit a second sample for lab analysis. If that lab result shows THC levels below the limit, the driver would be cleared to resume driving. For those exceeding the threshold, penalties wouldn't be immediate.

Instead, they would receive two warnings before facing charges on a third offense. At that point, the consequences include a fine of AU$704 (about $502) and a minimum three-month license suspension.

Associate Professor at Monash University’s Accident Research Center called the proposal “a world first” in setting a roadside THC limit, comparing it to the introduction of blood alcohol limits. “These planned reforms represent an important advance in balancing road safety with the needs of medicinal cannabis users,” she said.

But not everyone is on board. Opposition leader Kellie Sloane told ABC News she won’t support the move, arguing that impairment varies from person to person. “Until we have the science on that, we shouldn’t be moving forward with these laws,” she said.

As debates continue in Australia, local drivers should note that U.S. laws remain strict on THC and driving. Always consult your state’s regulations before getting behind the wheel.