While many states are embracing cannabis legalization, Indiana is moving in the opposite direction with a proposal that would shut down all forms of cannabis advertising within state lines. This aggressive measure comes from one of the few remaining states where cannabis possession remains illegal.
From Billboard Ban to Complete Blackout
What started as a targeted effort to remove cannabis billboards has quickly expanded into something much broader. Initially, an Indiana Senate panel discussed a bill focused specifically on billboard advertisements. Now, lawmakers have attached a much more sweeping ban as an amendment to an unrelated bill about utility trailers.
The expanded proposal would prohibit advertising of any Schedule I substance on Indiana’s controlled substances list—with cannabis being the clear target.
What Would Be Banned?
If passed, the ban would be extensive, covering:
- Billboards
- Direct mail advertisements
- Mobile ads on trucks and vehicles
- Television commercials
- Potentially online advertising
For Hoosiers living near cannabis-friendly Michigan, Illinois, or Ohio, this would mean an end to the steady stream of cannabis promotions crossing state lines.
Border Town Frustrations Sparked the Bill
State Representative Jim Pressel, a Republican who chairs the House Roads and Transportation Committee, pushed for the legislation after complaints from his constituents in a border community near Michigan.
“My constituents, myself included, receive up to two—what would look like political mailers—a week advertising an illegal substance,” Pressel said during a recent hearing.
His district, which sits close to Michigan where adult-use cannabis is fully legal, has become what he describes as “inundated” with cannabis advertisements.
Steep Penalties for Violators
Companies breaking the proposed advertising ban would face serious consequences. Violations could result in:
- Civil penalties up to $15,000
- Additional costs for investigation and legal proceedings
The bill does provide a small grace period, exempting advertising from contracts signed or renewed before the law’s approval date.
An Island of Prohibition
Indiana’s aggressive stance against cannabis stands in stark contrast to its neighbors. Three of Indiana’s four bordering states—Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio—have all legalized adult-use cannabis. This creates a unique situation where products that are legally advertised just across state lines would be banned from promotional materials within Indiana.
Cannabis possession remains a misdemeanor offense in Indiana, with no medical or recreational program in place.
What’s Next for the Bill?
The proposal is currently being reviewed by the chamber’s Committee on Appropriations. If approved, the ban would take effect immediately.
For cannabis businesses operating in neighboring states, this could mean significant adjustments to their marketing strategies to avoid crossing into Indiana with their promotional materials. Meanwhile, Indiana residents will continue to see a stark contrast between their state’s cannabis policies and those just across state lines.
