Marijuana Advertising and Marketing Regulations in Arkansas

What Are The Specific Rules And Restrictions For Advertising And Marketing Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016 prohibits the advertising and marketing of marijuana products. Specifically, dispensaries cannot advertise in any media, including radio, television, print, digital, or billboards. Direct mail and door-to-door marketing are also prohibited. Additionally, dispensaries must not use promotional giveaways or contests. Any advertising must contain disclaimers noting that the product is for medical use only and must not be used by any person under the age of 21. Advertising and marketing must also adhere to all applicable federal laws and regulations.

Are There Limitations On Where Marijuana Advertisements Can Be Displayed, Such As Near Schools Or Parks in Arkansas?

Yes, there are limitations on where marijuana advertisements can be displayed in Arkansas. Advertisements for recreational cannabis may not be visible from any school, college, church, public park, playground, or youth center. Additionally, advertisements may not be directed toward persons under 21 years of age and must include a health warning statement.

How Do State Regulations Address Advertising To Minors Or Individuals Under The Legal Age For Marijuana Consumption in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, all marijuana-related advertising must comply with regulations outlined in Amendment 98, the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment. These regulations include:

1. Advertising must not be targeted towards displaying to minors or be reasonably calculated to encourage the consumption of marijuana by individuals under the legal age for marijuana consumption in Arkansas.

2. Advertising must not depict anyone consuming marijuana or any of its products, or suggest that the primary or intended use of marijuana or its products is a recreational one.

3. Advertising must not use any images of persons under 21 years of age, or use language that appeals to persons under 21 years of age.

4. Advertising must not depict anyone driving or operating any type of vehicle while consuming marijuana or any of its products.

5. Advertising must not make any health claims regarding marijuana or its products without citing scientific evidence substantiating such claims.

What Are The Guidelines For Advertising Via Television, Radio, Print Media, And Online Platforms in Arkansas?

Television, Radio, and Print Media

All advertisements broadcast, published, or disseminated over television, radio, and print media must comply with all Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Regulations and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Online Platforms

The Arkansas Advertising Practices Act regulates advertising over the internet. The Act requires that all advertisers be truthful in their claims. This includes not making false or misleading statements about the quality of the product or service being advertised, or falsely representing it as having benefits or features that it does not possess. The Act also requires that all advertisements contain accurate contact information for the advertiser, including a physical address, email address, telephone number, and website address. In addition, if an advertiser has evidence that the product they are advertising may cause harm to consumers or to the environment, they must provide this information in the advertisement as a warning. Finally, all online advertisements must include a statement regarding any third-party endorsements of the product or service.

Are There Restrictions On Using Billboards Or Outdoor Advertising For Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes, there are restrictions on using billboards or outdoor advertising for marijuana products in Arkansas. All billboards and outdoor advertising must adhere to the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Advertising Rule, which sets out a number of restrictions. Specifically, marijuana-related advertising must not: be visible from any public right-of-way; target minors; contain any false or misleading representation; portray the use of marijuana in any manner that promotes overuse; include any endorsement or testimonial; or depict any illegal activities.

Do State Regulations Prohibit False Or Misleading Advertising Claims For Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission has strict regulations concerning the advertising of marijuana products. All advertising must comply with state and federal laws, and no false or misleading claims may be made in any advertising. Advertising must be factual and not be deceptive or unfair. Advertising also cannot target children, depict the use of marijuana, or contain information that could be interpreted as encouraging irresponsible use of marijuana.

How Are Social Media And Digital Advertising Platforms Regulated For Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Currently, there are no regulations or restrictions on social media or digital advertising for marijuana products in Arkansas. However, a bill was recently introduced in the Arkansas legislature that would prohibit advertising of marijuana products on television, radio, and other forms of mass media. It is unclear if this bill will become law, but if it does, it could potentially impact social media and digital advertising platforms as well.

Are There Rules Governing The Use Of Endorsements Or Testimonials In Marijuana Advertisements in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas has rules governing the use of endorsements or testimonials in marijuana advertisements. According to the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission, “Marijuana advertising shall not contain endorsements or testimonials, directly or indirectly, from persons other than a health care professional.” Additionally, advertisements are not allowed to promote a particular brand or strain of marijuana and can not contain any false, deceptive, or misleading information.

Do State Regulations Require Health And Safety Warnings In Marijuana Advertisements in Arkansas?

No, there are no state regulations in Arkansas that require health and safety warnings in marijuana advertisements.

Is It Allowed To Use Cartoons, Mascots, Or Imagery That May Appeal To Children In Marijuana Ads in Arkansas?

No, it is not allowed to use cartoons, mascots, or imagery that may appeal to children in marijuana ads in Arkansas. The Arkansas medical marijuana advertising rules prohibit any depiction of minors or cartoon characters in medical marijuana advertising.

How Do Marijuana Advertising Regulations Apply To Packaging And Labeling in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment (AMMA) sets forth requirements in order for marijuana products to be sold in Arkansas. Advertising regulations apply to packaging and labeling, as all products must have a label that includes the following information: the name and address of the manufacturer, the cannabinoid profile, the contents of the package, the product’s date of manufacture, and a warning label indicating that the product is for medical use only. Additionally, all marijuana products must be enclosed in child-resistant packaging and must meet other labeling requirements set out in state law. Distributors and retailers are also responsible for ensuring that all their products are properly labeled and packaged.

Are There Restrictions On Giveaways, Promotions, Or Contests Related To Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes, there are restrictions on giveaways, promotions, or contests related to marijuana products in Arkansas. Generally, businesses are not allowed to give away marijuana products as part of a promotion or contest. Additionally, businesses are prohibited from offering any incentives for purchasing marijuana products.

What Penalties Or Consequences Can Businesses Face For Non-Compliance With Advertising Regulations in Arkansas?

1. Civil actions brought by the Attorney General of Arkansas: Individuals who have suffered economic loss due to a violation of state law may be able to seek legal remedies from the state, including monetary damages and attorney’s fees. The Attorney General may also seek injunctive relief to prevent future violations.

2. Criminal prosecution: Individuals who have violated state law may face criminal charges, including fines and potential jail sentences.

3. Revocation/suspension of business license: The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration may revoke or suspend a business license if the business is found to have violated state law.

4. Prosecution in federal court: Individuals may be subject to federal prosecution if they are found to have violated federal law, such as the Federal Trade Commission Act. This may result in significant fines and potential prison sentences.

Do State Regulations Distinguish Between Medical And Recreational Marijuana Advertising in Arkansas?

Yes, state regulations do distinguish between medical and recreational marijuana advertising in Arkansas. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016, which legalized medical marijuana in the state, contains explicit provisions that prohibit the advertising of medical marijuana products in any medium. Additionally, the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission Regulations, which went into effect in 2017, also prohibits the advertisement of medical marijuana in any form. However, there are no specific regulations regarding recreational marijuana advertising in the state at this time.

How Do Advertising Regulations Apply To Out-Of-State Or National Cannabis Brands in Arkansas?

Advertising regulations for cannabis brands in Arkansas are very strict. All advertising must follow the rules set forth in the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment and the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission Rules. In order to advertise in Arkansas, out-of-state or national cannabis brands must comply with the following advertising rules:

• Ads must not contain any content that encourages recreational use, appeal to minors, or depict a person consuming cannabis.
• Ads must not contain any content that is false or misleading.
• Ads must only be placed in age-appropriate media such as publications, television, radio, and digital platforms that have been pre-approved by the Commission.
• Ads must include a warning about the health risks associated with cannabis use and must also list any potential side effects.
• All ads must clearly display the business name, address, and contact information as well as the date of purchase.
• Ads may not be placed within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare center, or public park.

Are There Restrictions On The Use Of Terms Like Medical, Therapeutic, Or Natural In Marijuana Advertisements in Arkansas?

Yes, there are restrictions on the use of terms like medical, therapeutic, or natural in marijuana advertisements in Arkansas. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment specifically states that advertising may not target children, make false or misleading claims, or use terms like medical, therapeutic, or natural in an inaccurate or misleading way. All advertisements must also include a disclaimer that states that marijuana has not been approved by the FDA for any medical use and must not be represented as having any medicinal value. Additionally, advertisements must not contain any suggestions that the use of marijuana can be beneficial for the health of any person.

What Resources Are Available To Help Businesses Understand And Comply With Marijuana Advertising Regulations in Arkansas?

Businesses looking to understand and comply with marijuana advertising regulations in Arkansas can visit the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission website for resources, including rules, regulations, and guidelines. Additionally, businesses may seek advice from a qualified attorney who is familiar with marijuana law in Arkansas. Finally, Arkansans for Compassionate Care provides resources on their website about medical marijuana advertising requirements.

Is There A Process For Reporting And Addressing Violations Of Marijuana Advertising Regulations in Arkansas?

Yes, there is a process for reporting and addressing violations of marijuana advertising regulations in Arkansas. Consumers can submit complaints about marijuana advertising to the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission (AMMC). Complaints should include information about the location of the advertisement(s) and the type of violation(s). The AMMC will review the complaint and determine whether a violation has occurred. If a violation has occurred, the AMMC may take disciplinary actions against the violator, including fines and/or revocation of their license.

Do State Regulations Provide Guidance On Responsible Marketing Practices For Marijuana Businesses in Arkansas?

Yes. The Arkansas Department of Health’s medical marijuana regulation provides guidance on responsible marketing practices for marijuana businesses in Arkansas. Specifically, the regulation prohibits advertising or other promotional activities that are false or misleading, target minors, or promote overconsumption. The regulation also requires marijuana business owners to take steps to prevent their advertising from reaching beyond the state’s borders. Additionally, there are specific restrictions on how and where marijuana businesses can advertise, including prohibiting the advertisement of marijuana products on television, radio, and billboards. Finally, the regulation requires marijuana businesses to maintain detailed records of their advertising activities.

How Do State Regulations Balance The Need To Inform Consumers With The Goal Of Preventing Overconsumption Or Underage Access in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, state regulations attempt to balance the need to inform consumers with the goal of preventing overconsumption or underage access by requiring businesses that sell or serve alcoholic beverages to be properly licensed and adhere to strict rules and regulations. The state also requires servers of alcoholic beverages to obtain a permit from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and requires businesses selling alcohol to post warning signs regarding the legal age for purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, the state has laws in place that prohibit businesses from serving alcohol to minors and from selling or serving to persons who are obviously intoxicated. Additionally, there are reporting requirements for businesses that sell alcohol, such as providing records of sales and taking measures to ensure that those under 21 years of age are not served alcohol. Finally, Arkansas has a strict set of advertising regulations that are intended to prevent sales and promotion of alcoholic beverages to minors, as well as measures in place to prevent irresponsible overconsumption. These laws aim to protect consumers and prevent underage access while still allowing for responsible consumption.