Trafficking

Trafficking is the aggravated offense of transporting, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, typically in quantities that trigger mandatory minimum sentences. Under federal law (21 U.S.C. § 841(b)), marijuana trafficking triggers escalating penalties based on weight: 50–99 kg carries up to 20 years; 100–999 kg or 100–999 plants carries 5–40 years with a 5-year mandatory minimum; 1,000 kg/plants or more carries 10 years to life with a 10-year mandatory minimum. "Trafficking" is a common statutory label in state laws as well, though quantity thresholds vary widely (e.g., Florida's 25-lb threshold under Fla. Stat. § 893.135). Trafficking charges often accompany enhancements for proximity to schools (21 U.S.C. § 860), use of firearms (§ 924(c)), and prior felony drug convictions. Importantly, trafficking exposure survives state legalization: a licensed state operator shipping product across state lines remains exposed to federal trafficking charges, which is why interstate cannabis commerce has not developed despite multiple states' compact-authorizing statutes (Oregon SB 582, California SB 1326). *→ See also: Distribution, Intent to distribute, Possession