Meta Platforms Inc., the tech giant behind Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms, recently announced significant changes to its content moderation policies. The shift towards a "community notes" model, where users flag questionable content instead of relying on third-party fact-checkers, aims to tackle illegal and high-severity violations more effectively. However, one notable exception to these changes is cannabis-related content, which remains blocked and restricted despite the evolving legal landscape in various states and countries.

Meta's stance on cannabis content aligns with its categorization of such material as a "high severity violation," alongside terrorism, drugs, fraud, and scams. This approach has left the cannabis community sidelined, as businesses, advocates, and content creators continue to face challenges in reaching their audience and sharing information. The company's statement regarding illegal activities suggests that there has been no shift in its stance on cannabis, despite the legalization of marijuana in many states and the company's rhetoric about embracing free expression and reducing censorship.

The impact of Meta's policies on cannabis businesses, advocates, and content creators is evident in several ways. Cannabis businesses have been unable to reach potential customers through Meta's platforms, as searches for cannabis-related terms are blocked, and their content is often removed or restricted. Cannabis advocates and news outlets have had their accounts suspended or restricted, making it difficult for them to share information and advocate for cannabis legalization and reform. Content creators who produce cannabis-related content have faced challenges in reaching their audience and monetizing their content, as Meta's policies often restrict or remove their content.

Meta's new moderation policies present an opportunity for the company to reevaluate its stance on cannabis content and align its policies with the evolving legal landscape. By doing so, Meta could provide a platform for cannabis businesses, advocates, and content creators to reach a broader audience and engage in meaningful conversations about cannabis legalization, reform, and education. However, the company's continued restriction of cannabis-related content suggests that it may be missing an opportunity to adapt to the changing legal landscape and support the cannabis community.

In conclusion, Meta's new moderation policies do not extend to marijuana content, as cannabis searches remain blocked, and cannabis-related content continues to be restricted. This approach leaves the cannabis community sidelined, despite the legalization of marijuana in many states and the company's rhetoric about embracing free expression and reducing censorship. Meta has an opportunity to reevaluate its stance on cannabis content and align its policies with the evolving legal landscape, providing a platform for cannabis businesses, advocates, and content creators to reach a broader audience and engage in meaningful conversations about cannabis legalization, reform, and education.