The Fine Line: Colorado’s New Social Media Bill and Your Rights

Hey, Colorado! Got a minute? Let’s dive into something that’s stirring up a storm in our state.

As reported by Hightimes and local news organizations; the Centennial State’s Senate recently waved through SB24-158, a bill that’s got some seriously chilling implications for what you can share on social media.

This one’s not just about checking IDs online—it’s trying to police our praises for anything from legal psychedelics to your average cough syrup. Seriously.

What’s the Deal with SB24-158?

• The bill initially cast a wide net, aiming to stop promotions of any controlled substances online. Think about that for a second—anything deemed “positive” about a controlled substance could have had you scrubbed from your favorite platform. Very broad wording of course.
• After some smart thinking and a bit of pushback, amendments were made to keep it legal to discuss cannabis if you’re adhering to Colorado’s state laws. That’s a relief for legal growers and sellers, but the plot thickens.

So, What’s Still on the Chopping Block?

• Despite the reprieve for cannabis, the scope of this bill is still huge. We’re talking everyday items like off the shelf flu medication to prescribed anti-anxiety meds could land you in hot water if you talk them up online.
• Yep, if you’re thinking about praising how a certain over-the-counter med helped you through a flu, think again. Under this bill, that could be a no-go.

Why Should You Care?

• This isn’t just about keeping kids safe online, which we all support. It’s about the First Amendment—our right to speak freely. When laws start telling us what we can and cannot praise, especially when it comes to legal substances, it’s a slippery slope.
• And think about this: while the bill has dropped cannabis from its grip, it still holds onto a range of substances that are legal and often necessary. That’s not just overreaching; it’s, as some experts are calling it, downright stupid. We do!

What Can You Do?

• Stay informed, folks. Whether it’s keeping up with amendments or understanding what your rights are under new laws, knowledge is your power.
• Write your local rep; and tell them NO!
• Be cautious with what you post. Until this thing is set in stone, better safe than sorry when it comes to sharing content about any substances.

We all want a safe and healthy community online and off. But there’s a line between safety and overreach, and it looks like SB24-158 is toeing it a bit too closely.

As this bill moves forward, let’s keep our eyes open and our voices ready—because when it comes to our rights, we should all have something to say.