Despite historic tension between the tech and cannabis industries, VentureBeat reports that a slew of new policies from big tech companies in 2021 has signaled a critical turning point in the ongoing struggle.
In February 2021, actor John Belushi called out big tech over its unjust policies regarding cannabis content. In a tweet, Belushi wrote, “So sick of Facebook / Instagram. They shadow banned my farms Facebook page Belushis Farm and our Instagram. PLUS, they constantly take down our content. Don’t they know canabis a medicine?”
So sick of Facebook / Instagram. They shadow banned my farms Facebook page Belushis Farm and our Instagram. PLUS, they constantly take down our content. Don’t they know canabis a medicine?
— Cannabis Farmer: Jim Belushi (@JimBelushi) February 13, 2021
Belushi’s tweet echoed the sentiments of a frustrated cannabis industry that felt its content was being unfairly censored by big tech.
Given the cannabis content policies of many tech companies, it is easy to understand why the cannabis industry is fed up. Google, for example, prohibits advertisements for “substances that alter mental state for the purpose of recreation or otherwise induce ‘highs.’” Apple similarly prohibits any apps that streamline cannabis delivery or information on its popular App Store.
However, things seem to be looking up for the cannabis industry and big tech’s relationship. For example, Apple now allows verified “legal cannabis dispensaries” to display their apps in the App Store. Facebook too seems to have loosened its policies, as the formerly shadow-banned Belushi’s Farm page is now back on the site.
With the cannabis industry having one of its biggest years yet, it is clear that legal marijuana has real staying power. However, that doesn’t mean that big tech’s relationship with the cannabis industry doesn’t matter. Big tech’s embrace of cannabis is key to validating the industry in the eyes of consumers, government agencies, and financial institutions alike.
What do you think of big tech’s stance on cannabis content? How do you see these policies shifting in the future? Let us know in the comments!
As cannabis legalization is progressing around the world, many cannabis users are looking at whether or not growing their own plants at home is right for them. Before attempting home growing, it’s crucial to have the space, the right environment, and knowledge about cultivation. In this beginner’s guide to growing cannabis, we’ll walk you through…
Cannabis trichomes are microscopic, mushroom-shaped hairs on the cannabis plant that play a direct role in the effects consumers experience from cannabis. These tiny weed crystals contain the majority of the plant’s cannabinoids—the active chemical compounds—and terpenes—the aromatic compounds. Together, the compounds determine how our cannabis smells, tastes, and makes us feel.
Job hunting is a headache for anyone, but drug tests make the process even more cumbersome for those who consume cannabis. Despite the growing acceptance and legalization of cannabis, many major corporations still require employee drug testing for THC, the main compound in the plant. Times are changing quickly, though, and many businesses are amending…
With PGR weed growing in popularity, staying safe is the highest priority. PGR weed is grown with plant growth regulators to produce higher yields and fatter nugs. However, these potential benefits come at the risk of compromising flavor, visual appearance, and more extreme health effects. What is PGR Weed? PGR weed is cannabis flower grown…
The aroma coming from cannabis attracts many customers, as an array of soothing scents are offered by different strains. The same glands producing those smells, called trichomes, also produce the variety of color found on cannabis buds (or flowers), cannabinoids, and terpenes. Terpenes can produce a variety of distinctive flavors such as citrus, pepper, and…
Get your medical marijuana card today
Sign up in under 5 minutes
