A new bill proposed in Maine is stirring debate as it aims to ban cannabis advertising across the state. The legislation, sponsored by State Sen. Scott Cyrway (R), seeks to tighten restrictions on how cannabis businesses can promote their products, citing concerns over the potential influence on children.
Stricter Advertising Rules on the Horizon
Maine’s cannabis industry has been operating under a set of advertising regulations since the legalization of adult-use sales, but Cyrway argues they don’t go far enough. He believes the current rules leave too much room for cannabis companies to market their products in ways that might reach underage audiences.
“I always think of the children first,” Cyrway told WGME. “It is a big problem that we have not considered them, and that is why I am doing this.” His concerns echo those of many lawmakers and advocacy groups worried about youth exposure to cannabis promotions.
The bill proposes a near-total advertising ban, with only a few exceptions. Businesses would still be allowed to advertise:
- On their own websites.
- On physical signage at their business locations.
- In business directories.
However, any broader public advertising—whether on billboards, television, radio, or social media—would be prohibited under the bill.
Current Cannabis Advertising Rules in Maine
While some restrictions already exist, cannabis companies in Maine have enjoyed relatively flexible advertising opportunities compared to other regulated substances like alcohol or tobacco. The current law bans misleading claims, false statements, and health-related claims in advertisements. Additionally, there are strict location-based restrictions, including a rule that prevents cannabis advertising within 1,000 feet of schools.
But for some lawmakers, that’s not enough. The concern is that cannabis marketing—especially in digital spaces—may still be reaching minors despite these safeguards. The proposed legislation aims to shut down those potential loopholes by removing most public advertising avenues entirely.
Industry Pushback and Economic Concerns
Not everyone is on board with the proposed restrictions. Maine’s cannabis industry has been booming, generating over $217 million in adult-use cannabis sales in 2023 alone. Business owners argue that restricting advertising could hurt their ability to compete, particularly for smaller operators who rely on marketing to attract customers.
Critics of the bill argue that advertising bans don’t necessarily prevent underage exposure to cannabis. Instead, they believe education and responsible marketing regulations are more effective. Opponents also point to Maine’s approach to alcohol advertising, which allows promotional content as long as it follows guidelines to avoid targeting minors.
One cannabis business owner, speaking anonymously, told WGME, “We already follow strict advertising rules. This bill feels like an unnecessary punishment for legal businesses trying to operate responsibly.”
How Does Maine Compare to Other States?
Maine’s move to tighten advertising laws reflects a broader national debate on cannabis marketing restrictions. Some states, like Colorado and Washington, have imposed strict ad bans similar to what Maine is proposing. Others, like California, allow cannabis advertising but with rigorous restrictions to prevent targeting minors.
Here’s a quick look at how different states regulate cannabis advertising:
| State | Cannabis Advertising Rules |
|---|---|
| Colorado | No TV, radio, or print ads. Digital ads must verify age. |
| Washington | No billboards or promotional giveaways. Ads must be educational. |
| California | Limited digital ads, no health claims, no ads near schools. |
| Maine (Current Law) | No false claims, no ads near schools, some digital restrictions. |
| Maine (Proposed Bill) | Near-total ad ban, with small business exceptions. |
If the bill passes, Maine would move into one of the strictest regulatory categories, aligning itself with states like Colorado.
What’s Next?
The bill is expected to face significant debate in the state legislature, with cannabis industry representatives likely to push back against what they see as an unnecessary limitation on legal businesses. Public health advocates, however, may rally behind the proposal as a way to curb underage cannabis exposure.
For now, Maine cannabis businesses are watching closely, knowing that their ability to advertise could soon be on the chopping block.
Maria Garcia is an award-winning author who excels in creating engaging cannabis-centric articles that captivate audiences. Her versatile writing style allows her to cover a wide range of topics within the cannabis space, from advocacy and social justice to product reviews and lifestyle features. Maria’s dedication to promoting education and awareness about cannabis shines through in her thoughtfully curated content that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
