ban users for promoting or advertising cannabis and other regulated drugs and substances, but there is an exemption for medical and retail marijuana for those over 21
Cannabis Advertising on Social Media: Caught in the Crossfire
Since states across the country first began legalizing cannabis, the ability for cannabis-related businesses to advertise on social media has been a contentious issue. Platforms often remove cannabis business accounts, leaving professionals with limited access to their audience and forcing them to self-censor. This censorship may also lead to gaps in education and harm reduction information.
Colorado is currently facing this push and pull, as lawmakers work to advance legislation that would force social media platforms to ban users for promoting or advertising cannabis and other regulated drugs and substances. The bill, SB24-158, has faced criticism for not adequately addressing concerns around other substances, such as psilocybin and hemp-derived products.
The bill was recently amended to allow social media platforms to promote, sell, or advertise medical and retail marijuana to users over 21, as long as it complies with state laws. However, some critics argue that the bill still restricts the promotion of other substances, like Nyquil and anti-anxiety medications, and could lead to users being reported to law enforcement.
While the exemption for those over 21 may seem like a workaround, the bill still requires social media companies to ban users for promoting or advertising cannabis and other regulated drugs and substances. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the exemption and the potential consequences for those who do not comply.
