Michigan cannabis advertising regulations you need to know

So, before you decide to launch a campaign without any research, make sure to get yourself acquainted with the do’s and don’ts of cannabis advertising in Michigan. Fortunately, MPP has done the heavy lifting for you. In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about cannabis advertising and share resources to check out for any lingering questions you may have. Remember that cannabis products are still not legal at a federal level, so these regulations are specific to the state of Michigan.


Who regulates the Michigan cannabis industry?


Basic Michigan cannabis advertising laws
- Advertisements cannot market a cannabis product in a way that is deceptive, false, or misleading, or make any false or misleading assertions or statements.
- You cannot claim health benefits of a product unless a qualified health claim has received and complies with a Letter of Enforcement Discretion issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or the health claim has been approved under the significant scientific agreement standard by the FDA.
- Products must not be marketed or advertised to minors aged 17 years or younger, and most products must be marketed to those 21 and older. No elements in the ad can appeal to children.
- Advertisements must be run on platforms or printed where no more than 30% of the audience is reasonably expected to be under the age of 21.
- Language, terminology, and photos used in ads need to be approved. For example, you cannot use images of marijuana or products.
- You cannot advertise pricing, promotional offers, or potency.

Where can cannabis be advertised?

Programmatic display ads
In the digital space, programmatic display ads can run through third-party vendors. These vendors place ads in brand-safe environments that follow state rules and regulations. Many high-traffic, mainstream sites will accept these ads.
Geofencing tactics can be used to target adults near locations that might be relevant to their campaign.

Digital streaming audio
Because digital audio has data-based audience targeting, digital audio ads can run on podcasts and other streaming services. Digital audio advertising currently offers more inventory for CBD brands than for cannabis-specific ones, but options are expanding for cannabis.

Out-of-Home advertising
Cannabis can be advertised using Out-of-Home methods, such as billboards and other outdoor signage.

Where can’t cannabis be advertised?

Specific digital platforms
Digital platforms have their own policies about advertising cannabis. Google classifies both medicinal and recreational cannabis as a recreational drug in their Advertising Policy and won’t run ads for these products.

Certain social media platforms
Social platforms Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok don’t allow cannabis ads, although rules for CBD products vary. You can read Meta’s advertising policies here and Twitter’s policy here.

Traditional radio and broadcast TV
Traditional venues like radio stations and broadcast TV cannot advertise cannabis products. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) does not allow any cannabis advertisements to be aired on radio or TV commercials.

Stay on top of Michigan cannabis advertising regulations
That’s why it’s so important to work with a trusted partner who knows the ins and outs of cannabis advertising. Venturing out on your own could mean banned ad accounts and penalties from the state. MPP’s marketing team helps ensure that you’re putting advertising dollars into campaigns that are seen and keep you out of hot water.

Have cannabis advertising questions?
