Twitch’s Stance on Illegal Drugs and Marijuana Use on the Platform
Twitch has taken a strong stance against the use of illegal drugs on its platform, as stated in its Community Guidelines. Any user found using illegal drugs will be reported and banned. However, the use of marijuana has become more controversial due to changes in laws.
The Legality of Marijuana on Twitch
When Twitch was founded in 2011, marijuana was illegal. However, since 2012, several U.S. states have legalized its use. It’s important to note that while marijuana is legal in some states, it is still illegal federally, which can be confusing.
Exceptions for Marijuana Use on Twitch
Twitch has made some exceptions to its illegal drug rule for marijuana use. However, it’s essential to note that viewers may still report you for using illegal substances even if you fall under the exceptions. While it is possible to win a case if you smoke on your stream and meet the criteria, it may not be easy.
To determine if you are eligible for an exception, familiarize yourself with the marijuana laws in your state.
Smoking Marijuana on Twitch: What You Need to Know
Yes, you can smoke marijuana on your Twitch stream if it is legal for recreational use in your state. In 2018, Snoop Dogg smoked a blunt on stream after California legalized marijuana purchases. Twitch did not take action against him, stating that it encourages users to follow their country and state laws. This set a precedent for smoking marijuana in states where it is legal.
To smoke on stream, make sure you have set your stream to “mature audience only” in order to comply with Twitch guidelines. It is crucial to consider the age of your viewers since smoking is only permitted for individuals over the age of 21. Failure to warn underage viewers may result in consequences.
It is important to smoke responsibly and not cause harm. Twitch allows drinking on streams but does not support excessive consumption that may lead to irrational behavior. It is also discouraged to use donations as an excuse to smoke excessively. Simply smoking normally without causing a fuss is the best approach.
If your state only permits medicinal use of marijuana, ensure that you have obtained it legally. Keep your marijuana card nearby, with sensitive information hidden, to show your viewers that you are using marijuana legally. However, keep in mind that some people may still flag you since it is technically illegal in your state.
States Where Smoking Marijuana on Stream Is Permitted
It is advisable to double-check your state’s laws, but the following states permit smoking marijuana:
- Alabama (Medicinal use only)
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas (Medicinal use only)
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware (Medicinal use only)
- District of Columbia
- Florida (Medicinal use only)
- Hawaii (Medicinal use only)
- Illinois
- Iowa (Medicinal use only)
- Louisiana (Medicinal use only)
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota (Medicinal use only)
- Mississippi (Medicinal use only)
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire (Medicinal use only)
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Dakota (Medicinal use only)
- Ohio (Medicinal use only)
- Oklahoma (Medicinal use only)
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania (Medicinal use only)
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota (Medicinal use only)
- Utah (Medicinal use only)
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia (Medicinal use only)