A new proposal filed today in the New York Assembly would prohibit marijuana advertisements on television and radio, while also imposing fines of up to $5,000 for violations.
Assembly Bill 8510, introduced by Assemblymember Keith Brown (R), was referred to the Committee on Economic Development. The measure would amend Section 86 of the state’s cannabis law by banning cannabis and cannabis product advertisements that appear on TV or radio, or are in the form of billboards. The bill also expands existing advertising restrictions related to targeting children, making misleading claims, and promoting sales through discounts and coupons.
Under the bill, anyone found advertising in violation of Section 86 could face a civil penalty of up to $5,000 per violation. This would apply to individuals or licensed cannabis businesses, and could be enforced even during the license application process.
“If a registration or license application being denied under this subdivision, such registered organization or licensee shall be served with a written determination to the regard,” the bill states.
Current law already prohibits advertising deemed false or misleading, and ads directed at minors or near sensitive areas like playgrounds and schools. However, AB 8510 would go further by enshrining the prohibition on broadcast and billboard ads into state law.
If enacted, the changes would take effect 30 days after becoming law.
