Archive

Tennessee Proposes New Rules for Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Products (HDCPs): Licensing, Testing & Retail Requirements

By Emily Hackman, David Ullian
Aug 25, 2025

The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission has released proposed rules that would significantly reshape how hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCPs) are produced, tested, labeled, and sold beginning in 2026. In this article, we outline who must comply with the proposed rules, key licensing and application requirements, restrictions on products and supply chains, mandatory testing and labeling standards, retail sales rules, and recordkeeping obligations to help businesses prepare.

The Ultimate Guide to Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act (SB23-290 Psychedelics Law)

By Joshua Kappel, Juliana Todeschi, George Winfrey, Will Denney
Aug 22, 2025

Colorado’s groundbreaking psychedelics law, the Natural Medicine Health Act (SB23-290), continues to take shape. Originally signed into law in 2023, the Act established the country’s most comprehensive framework for natural psychedelic medicine. Since then, Colorado regulators have finalized rules for facilitator licensing, healing centers, cultivators, and testing facilities, with the program officially launching on January 1, 2025. This updated guide reflects the latest regulatory developments, including compliance requirements, Indigenous inclusion, and public health protections.

Vicente LLP Attorneys Recognized Across All 2026 Best Lawyers® Categories, Including Lawyer of the Year

Aug 21, 2025

Vicente LLP is proud to announce that 12 of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of the Best Lawyers® awards, marking a milestone achievement with honors in all three individual award categories. Eight attorneys earned placements on The Best Lawyers in America® list, four were included in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®, and one was honored with the prestigious “Lawyer of the Year” designation.

Cannabis Attorney Neil Willner to Discuss the Legal and Business Landscape of Hemp Beverages at NECANN New Jersey 2025

Aug 20, 2025

On September 5, 2025, Vicente LLP counsel Neil Willner will lead a session at NECANN New Jersey examining the laws, rules, and business trends shaping the sale and distribution of hemp-infused beverages in The Garden State. This program will provide practical guidance for businesses selling and producing hemp beverages. Vicente LLP partner Brandon Kurtzman will also attend the convention.

Trump Signals Cannabis Rescheduling: Schedule III Marijuana Decision Expected Soon

By Shawn Hauser
Aug 20, 2025

President Trump has confirmed that his administration is actively reviewing a proposal to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. If approved, this change would officially recognize medical use for the first time in over 50 years and could bring major shifts for the cannabis industry. In this article, we’ll break down what Schedule III would mean, the opportunities and limits of rescheduling, and what cannabis businesses should keep in mind as these changes unfold.

Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Releases Draft Social Consumption Establishment Regulations for Formal Public Comment

By David M. Ullian, Tim Callahan
Aug 19, 2025

On August 14, 2025, the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released draft rules for Social Consumption Establishments, outlining three new license types, four categories of consumption areas, and detailed operational standards. The proposed regulations also update agent registration requirements and open an exclusivity period for Social Equity and Economic Empowerment applicants. Public comments are now being accepted ahead of a September 8 hearing.

Minnesota Attorney Jason Tarasek to Attend Green Equity: A Cannabis Leadership Summit 2025

Aug 14, 2025

Vicente partner Jason Tarasek will attend Green Equity: A Cannabis Leadership Summit in Minneapolis on August 18. The event, hosted by the Minority Cannabis Business Association, aims to build equity and opportunity within the cannabis industry.

California Attorney Lauren Mendelsohn to Speak on Cannabis Investment, Grants and Market Trends at Women in Cannabis Expo 2025

Aug 13, 2025

On August 15, 2025, Vicente partner Lauren Mendelsohn will speak at the Women in Cannabis Expo (WICE) in Reno, Nevada, sharing insights on cannabis investment, grants and the current market landscape.

Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel Shares Insights on Psilocybin Legislation in Colorado and New Mexico

Aug 11, 2025

On August 6, 2025, Vicente LLP founding partner and psychedelics attorney Joshua Kappel, Esq. spoke at Chacruna Institute’s “State Psilocybin Programs: Therapy and Legislation in the Southwest Community Forum”, sharing insights on how Colorado and New Mexico are developing psilocybin legislation and what these approaches mean for cultural integrity, equitable access, and public safety.

Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction? Vote for Our SXSW 2026 Panel

Aug 11, 2025

Our SXSW 2026 panel will explore how psychedelics, cannabis, and policy reform could transform addiction treatment. Featuring cannabis and psychedelics lawyer Shawn Hauser, pioneering researcher Dr. Sue Sisley, and SXSW-winning filmmaker Justin Benoliel. Vote for “Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction?” by August 24 to help bring this important conversation to the stage.

New Mexico Issues Hemp Emergency Rules

By Emily Hackman
Aug 8, 2025

New Mexico’s Environment Department (NMED) has passed emergency rules for hemp producers to address safety concerns over synthesized cannabinoids. The new regulations prohibit hemp facilities from handling semi-synthetic and synthetic cannabinoids unless specific purity standards are met. Read on to learn more.

How Cannabis Companies Use ESOPs for Tax Savings and Ownership Transition

By Charles Alovisetti, Jack Crain
Aug 7, 2025

As the cannabis industry matures, more operators are exploring alternative ownership structures that support both long-term growth and successful exits. One powerful yet underutilized option is the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). In this article, we discuss how cannabis companies can use ESOPs to create tax-efficient exit strategies, reduce the impact of Section 280E, and build long-term value through employee ownership. We also outline the structure, tax benefits, regulatory considerations, and practical execution of ESOP transactions in the cannabis space.

[Webinar] Understanding ESOPs: Taxes, Cash Flow, and Employee Ownership

Aug 7, 2025

Looking for a strategic, tax-advantaged way to grow your cannabis company or plan for succession? An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) could be the solution. In this session, Vicente LLP’s corporate team and special guest Darren Gleeman, Managing Partner at MBO Ventures break down the core benefits of ESOPs for cannabis businesses, explore key structures, and answer common questions.

New York State Office of Cannabis Management Issues Correction on Dispensary Proximity to Schools

By Neil Willner, Brandon Kurtzman
Jul 29, 2025

The New York Office of Cannabis Management has issued a key correction on how to measure the 500-foot buffer between dispensaries and schools. This change could affect 150+ operators statewide, including both pending applicants and currently licensed retailers. In this article, we break down what this means for your cannabis business operations, how to ensure compliance, and what relief options may be available.

New Jersey Opens Cannabis Consumption Area Endorsements to All Class 5 Retailers

By Brandon Kurtzman, Lauren Mendelsohn
Jul 29, 2025

New Jersey has expanded access to its cannabis consumption lounge license, now allowing all Class 5 Retailers and permitted medical dispensaries to apply as of July 2, 2025. Previously limited to Equity and Diversely Owned Businesses, this broader eligibility opens new opportunities for cannabis operators across the state.

Vicente LLP’s Samantha Fow Joins Gaia Gossip Podcast to Discuss Indigenous Cannabis and Hemp Policy

Jul 23, 2025

Vicente LLP’s Samantha Fow joins the Gaia Gossip podcast to discuss Indigenous-led cannabis and hemp policy, and the environmental, cultural, and economic impact of cannabis and hemp advocacy within Indigenous communities. She’ll highlight the firm’s collaboration on the Tribal Cannabis and Hemp Programs Map and its broader support for tribal sovereignty through legal and policy advocacy.

Cannabis in the Cornhusker State: What You Need to Know about Nebraska’s Medical Cannabis Law and Licensing Opportunities

By David M. Ullian
Jul 21, 2025

Nebraska has officially joined the majority of U.S. states with a regulated medical cannabis program. Following the passage of two ballot measures in 2024, the state finalized emergency regulations in June 2025 and will begin issuing cannabis business licenses later this year. This article provides a high-level overview of the new legal framework, including licensing types, product restrictions, ownership requirements, and key dates. With applications opening soon, now is the time for prospective operators to prepare. Vicente LLP’s licensing team is here to help you navigate the process.

How to Buy or Sell a Cannabis License in Minnesota’s Adult-Use Market: M&A Guide (2025)

By Jason Tarasek, Charles Alovisetti, Jack Crain
Jul 18, 2025

Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis program is officially underway, and the state’s M&A activity is heating up. This blog outlines key licensing trends, including microbusiness and mezzobusiness activity, valuation ranges, and social equity program requirements. It also breaks down the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management’s (OCM) new guidance on ownership transfers. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in a cannabis license, this resource highlights what you need to know to structure a compliant deal in the North Star State.

Texas SB 2024: Statewide Ban on Hemp-Derived Vapes Takes Effect September 2025

By Shawn Hauser, Angela George
Jul 17, 2025

Texas Senate Bill 2024, signed into law on June 20, 2025, enacts a sweeping statewide ban on hemp-derived vape products, effective September 1, 2025. While attention was focused on the vetoed SB 3, SB 2024 quietly advanced and now effectively eliminates hemp-derived vape products from the Texas market. This blog explores the bill’s evolution, the legislative strategy behind it, and the far-reaching implications for the hemp and vape industries.

Sally Kent Peebles Breaks Down Psychedelic Law at the 2025 North Florida Entheogenic Conference

Jul 16, 2025

At the 2025 North Florida Entheogenic Conference in Jacksonville, Vicente LLP partner Sally Kent Peebles presented a session on psychedelic law and policy insights for professionals navigating legal complexities in psychedelic-assisted therapy and plant medicine. Her talk, “Psychedelic Policy and Legal Pathways,” provided a clear overview of federal regulations, Florida’s evolving legal landscape, and lessons from Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act.

How to Find a Compliant Property for Your Colorado Natural Medicine Business

By Colleen Mitchell
Jul 15, 2025

If you’re planning to open a licensed natural medicine healing center, cultivation facility, or manufacturing business in Colorado, the first step is securing a compliant property. This process can be complex, involving both state and local zoning requirements, setback rules, and proper site control documentation. In this blog, we break down the key property considerations for Colorado natural medicine businesses, including how to navigate zoning approvals, understand state and local setback requirements, and secure the necessary site control documents to move your business forward.

Vicente LLP to Speak at 2025 Cannabis Law Conference in Minneapolis

Jul 15, 2025

Vicente LLP partner Jason Tarasek and director of regulatory compliance Genevieve Meehan will speak at the 2025 Cannabis Law Conference. The event will bring together legal professionals, industry leaders and policymakers to discuss the future of cannabis in the state and beyond. Be sure to join!

Vicente LLP to Join Industry Leaders at the 2025 Hemp Beverage Expo in Atlanta

Jul 2, 2025

Are you attending the Hemp Beverage Expo in Atlanta, Georgia from July 9-11, 2025? Connect with Vicente LLP’s hemp industry attorneys and compliance professionals, including partners Charles Alovisetti, Cassia Furman, Meg Nash, and senior director of regulatory compliance Casey Leaver. Register now!

Texas Cannabis Legalization: What the SB 3 Veto Means for Hemp Businesses

By K. Dana Harewood, Angela George, Shawn Hauser
Jul 1, 2025

Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s veto of Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) created a critical moment for the state’s hemp industry. With a special legislative session beginning on July 21, 2025, Texas has an opportunity to expand on its existing regulatory framework to better balance consumer safety with a business-friendly approach. In this blog post, we discuss the key details of the SB 3 veto, Governor Abbott’s proposed policy objectives and the political challenges ahead. Months of legislative turmoil in the Lone Star State have left the Texas hemp industry in limbo, uncertain whether it will survive until the end of the year. Thanks to an 11th hour veto of Texas Senate Bill 3, the state’s hemp industry remains alive and well – at least for now.

Utah Opens Medical Cannabis Pharmacy License Applications: What You Need to Know

By Yolanda Clarke
Jul 1, 2025

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) announced that the application window for the first of two new independent medical cannabis pharmacy licenses is now open from July 1 to July 31, 2025. The application fee is $2,500, and licenses cannot be transferred for at least 15 years. Eligible applicants must be new operators with no financial ties to existing pharmacies and must locate in medically underserved areas. This blog covers key requirements, including zoning, security, operational plans, and deadlines to help applicants prepare for this rare licensing opportunity.

Vicente LLP Expands National Team with New Attorneys

Jun 26, 2025

Join us in welcoming our new cannabis attorneys to our Denver and California offices. We are committed to building a legal team that not only reflects the communities we serve but also helps shape a more just and equitable future for the industries we support.

Vicente LLP: Exclusive Executive Interview at Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference with Charles Alovisetti

Jun 25, 2025

On June 9, Vicente LLP partner Charles Alovisetti spoke at Benzinga’s Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago where he discussed federal cannabis reform, hemp beverage regulation, the risks of prohibition, and why responsible, common-sense legislation is critical to the industry’s future. Listen now!

Corporate Attorney Charles Alovisetti Spoke on Cannabis M&A Licensing Pitfalls at Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Jun 25, 2025

Vicente partner and co-chair of the firm’s Corporate Department Charles Alovisetti recently spoke at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago on June 9, 2025 during a panel discussion on licensing pitfalls in cannabis mergers and acquisitions. Watch the replay!

Vicente LLP Recognized in The Legal 500 United States Cannabis Rankings for 2025

Jun 24, 2025

Vicente LLP is proud to announce that it has been officially recognized in “The Legal 500 United States – Cannabis,” rankings for 2025! Every year, The Legal 500 highlights the most outstanding law firms across the country, and this year, we’re proud to be listed among the top firms in cannabis.

Fifteen Years of Impact: Vicente LLP’s Journey

By Vicente LLP
Jun 17, 2025

Over the past 15 years, Vicente LLP has evolved from a bold legal experiment into one of the most influential forces in cannabis and psychedelics reform. From leading the charge on Colorado’s historic Amendment 64 to shaping national psychedelics policy and supporting Tribal sovereignty, Vicente LLP has redefined what it means to be a mission-driven law firm.

Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston Talks Tax Revenue, Hemp Beverages & Legal Reform on High Spirits Podcast

Jun 17, 2025

How will federal and state laws shape the future of THC beverages? In a recent episode of High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast, Vicente director of economics and market analysis Andrew Livingston discusses cannabis legalization along with hemp beverages and their potential to be regulated similarly to alcohol. He explores the challenges and opportunities for brands as the industry navigates how alcohol regulations may shape the future of the hemp industry. Listen now!

Minnesota Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Product Registration Now Open Through August 31, 2025

By Meg Nash
Jun 16, 2025

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has opened a new registration window for businesses selling hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCPs), including THC beverages. Businesses must register by August 31, 2025, to remain eligible for fall licensing and summer sales. Starting October 1, OCM will accept applications for Lower Potency Hemp Edible (LPHE) licenses for retailers, manufacturers, and the newly established wholesaler category. This blog outlines the state’s updated rules on potency, packaging, facility standards, onsite consumption, events, and delivery services.

Vicente LLP Deepens Engagement with Native American Cannabis and Hemp

Jun 10, 2025

Through strategic partnerships, speaking engagements, and community-centered events, Vicente LLP is expanding its role as a trusted legal advisor in the cannabis and hemp space to Native American Tribes exploring or implementing regulated cannabis programs. From developing the first-ever Tribal Cannabis and Hemp Programs Map with the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association to sponsoring policy summits and participating in national forums, Vicente is demonstrating its commitment to advocating for Indigenous-led cannabis policy.

Washington State Launches New Social Equity Cannabis Licensing Period

By Jerrico Perez
Jun 9, 2025

Washington State is beginning a new round of competitive cannabis licensing through the Social Equity in Cannabis Program. The application portal opens on June 2 and closes on July 1st. Now is the time to confirm you meet all eligibility criteria and prepare your application.

Vicente LLP Earns Top National Recognition for Cannabis and Psychedelics Law in Chambers USA 2025 Guide

Jun 5, 2025

Vicente LLP is proud to once again earn Band 1 Nationwide rankings for both Cannabis Law and Psychedelics Law in the Chambers USA 2025 Guide—reaffirming our position as the leading firm in these emerging sectors. Since the introduction of Cannabis Law in 2019 and Psychedelics Law in 2024, we’ve consistently led the field with a proven track record, bold policy leadership, and a steadfast commitment to our clients.

Maryland Cannabis Business Assistance Fund: Portal and Registration Opening Today with Application to Follow

By Meg Nash
Jun 3, 2025

Maryland’s Cannabis Business Assistance Fund (CBAF) portal will open today, the first step in providing direct capital assistance to Social Equity Applicants awarded a conditional Maryland Cannabis License. Keep reading to ensure you are ready to apply, and access funds to move from conditional to final license.

Native American Tribal Sovereignty and the Cannabis Industry

By David M. Ullian
Jun 2, 2025

As cannabis legalization spreads, Native American Tribes are asserting their sovereign rights to shape their own paths in the industry. This blog post explores how Tribal sovereignty provides a legal foundation for participation in cannabis, examines the challenges and opportunities Tribes face, and highlights the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ groundbreaking success in launching a vertically integrated cannabis operation in North Carolina, despite statewide prohibition.

Vicente LLP to Participate in Maryland Office of Social Equity’s “From Seed to Success” Cannabis Business Vendor Fair

Jun 2, 2025

Vicente LLP is participating in Maryland’s Office of Social Equity's “From Seed to Success” Cannabis Business Vendor Fair on June 6. Partner Charles Alovisetti will attend on behalf of the firm to offer legal insights and connect with social equity cannabis licensees. Register now!

[Webinar] Cannabis Licensing in the U.S. Virgin Islands

May 30, 2025

In this session, Vicente LLP and The Walker Legal Group explore what you need to know about the U.S. Virgin Islands' upcoming cannabis licensing round. Our cannabis policy and licensing experts will break down the newly adopted regulations, including ownership and residency requirements, license caps by island, and the approach to scoring criteria for each license type.

Join Vicente LLP at Psychedelic Science 2025 in Denver!

May 23, 2025

Vicente LLP is proud to sponsor Psychedelic Science 2025, the world’s largest conference dedicated to psychedelics and natural medicine! Vicente attorneys Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska and Jerrico Perez will be featured in multiple sessions on natural medicine law, policy and entrepreneurship. Stop by Booth #406 or find us in the Business & Practitioner Lounge to connect with our team. Reach out to schedule a meeting.

How HB25-1209 Streamlines Colorado Cannabis Laws

By Genevieve Meehan, Samantha Fow
May 22, 2025

On May 16, the Colorado legislature passed HB25-1209, a bill designed to reduce regulatory burdens on licensed cannabis businesses. Spearheaded by state lawmakers and supported by industry advocates, the bill streamlines outdated requirements related to background checks, recordkeeping, surveillance, and more—aiming to improve operational efficiency while maintaining public safety. In this Insights post, we’ll cover the key changes introduced by HB25-1209, how they affect cannabis operators and regulators, and what businesses should know moving forward.

Legal Insider Names Vicente LLP “Cannabis and Psychedelics Law Firm of the Year — Denver 2025”

May 12, 2025

Vicente receives Legal Insider’s “Cannabis & Psychedelics Law Firm of the Year — Denver 2025” award for offering best-in-class cannabis and psychedelics law services.

Join Vicente LLP at Earl-A-Whirl Minnesota Cannabis Event During Art-A-Whirl Weekend

May 8, 2025

Celebrate Art-A-Whirl weekend with Vicente LLP at Earl-A-Whirl! We’re proud to sponsor a portion of the live art area during this cannabis community event at Earl Giles Distillery in Minneapolis. Stop by to meet Minnesota cannabis attorney Jason Tarasek while exploring over 40 THC vendors, live music, street performers and more!

Vicente LLP and Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association Collaborate on First-Ever Tribal Cannabis and Hemp Programs Map

May 2, 2025

Vicente LLP, in collaboration with the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA), developed a first-of-its-kind map highlighting 56 unique Tribal cannabis programs across the continental U.S. in addition to dozens of additional hemp operations. As featured in POLITICO Pro, the project sheds light on how participation varies by state and explores how market structures and compacting agreements shape Tribal engagement with cannabis and hemp. Created by Andrew Livingston and Mary Jane Oatman, the map serves as a key resource for future research and collaboration within Indigenous cannabis policy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hemp Beverages: How Federal and State Laws Are Reshaping the THC Drink Market

By Charles Alovisetti, Juliana Todeschi, Daniel Molina
Apr 29, 2025

With consumer demand surging and retail availability expanding, hemp-derived THC beverages are at the center of a fast-growing industry. This article breaks down the answers to key questions about how federal and state lawmakers are shaping the future of the market, including potential outcomes of the 2025 Farm Bill, rising state restrictions and legal uncertainty surrounding intoxicating cannabinoids.

Brian Vicente Named to ColoradoBiz Spring 2025 Business Law Power List

Apr 16, 2025

Brian Vicente, founding partner of Vicente LLP and a pioneer in cannabis policy reform, has been honored by ColoradoBiz as a top business law leader in their Spring 2025 Power List. Congrats, Brian!

Understanding the Trump Administration’s Stance on Cannabis and Hemp Policy

By Charles Alovisetti
Apr 16, 2025

Trump’s return to the White House brings renewed uncertainty for cannabis and hemp policy. This blog breaks down his appointees’ stances, key campaign statements, and what the industry can expect in the months ahead.

Nebraska Hemp Enforcement Update: Delta-9 THC Crackdown Targets Retailers

By Steve Pemberton
Apr 15, 2025

Nebraska’s Attorney General has issued cease-and-desist letters to over 100 hemp retailers, citing illegal Delta-9 THC levels. The crackdown highlights the state’s aggressive stance on synthetic THC and mirrors growing national pressure on hemp businesses. Find out how these enforcement actions could impact the industry and what steps businesses can take to stay compliant.

Psychedelic Policy Reform in New Mexico: Governor Signs Medical Psilocybin Act

By Genevieve Meehan, Barine Majewska
Apr 9, 2025

New Mexico becomes the third state in the U.S. to legalize the supervised medical use of psilocybin with the passage of Senate Bill 219, the Medical Psilocybin Act. Notably, the bill was mandated by New Mexico’s legislature, and not by voter ballot measure as in Colorado and Oregon.

Meet Vicente LLP at the 50th Annual Federal Bar Association Indian Law Conference

Apr 7, 2025

Vicente LLP will be exhibiting at the 50th Annual FBA Indian Law Conference on April 28 and 29 in Albuquerque, NM. We are pleased to be joining legal professionals and leaders of Tribal Nations to discuss the advancement of Tribal Law and cannabis policy. Visit our exhibitor table to view our “Tribal Cannabis and Hemp Market Map,” created in collaboration with the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association.

Vicente Partner Jerrico Perez to Speak at PLI’s Cannabis Legal Conference

Mar 31, 2025

Vicente partner Jerrico Perez will discuss the current legal cannabis landscape at the upcoming Practising Law Institute (PLI) Cannabis: Legal and Business Fundamentals conference on April 29. The CLE course will be offered both online and in person in San Francisco. Register now!

Vicente Attorney Neil Willner Joins High Spirits Podcast to Discuss the Regulation of Hemp Beverages Like Alcohol

Mar 31, 2025

In a recent episode of the High Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast, Vicente LLP counsel Neil Willner discusses the growing trend of regulating hemp beverages like alcohol. In this episode, Neil explores the challenges and opportunities for brands, manufacturers, and distributors depending on how alcohol regulations eventually impact the future of hemp drinks. Listen now!

Corporate Transparency Act, We Hardly Knew Ye: What the Interim Final Rule Means for U.S. Businesses

By Charles Alovisetti
Mar 27, 2025

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) has undergone significant changes with the issuance of a new Interim Final Rule (IFR) by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). These changes significantly reduced the law's scope, exempting most U.S. companies from Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements. In this Insights post, we break down the key takeaways of the IFR and explain their impact on your business.

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: March 2025

Mar 25, 2025

Hemp-related legislative and regulatory updates, news and events. Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP!

Vicente LLP Team Members Are Headed to NoCo Hemp Expo 2025 in Estes Park

Mar 24, 2025

Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel is slated to speak during NoCo Hemp Expo 2025 in a panel about the current landscape for psilocybin therapy. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with multiple members of our team in Estes Park during the event. If you’ll be attending, be sure to reach out—we’d love to connect!

Florida Implements New Hemp Extract Regulations: Key Changes for 2025

By Juliana Todeschi
Mar 24, 2025

Florida’s Rule 5K-4.034 establishes new regulations for hemp extract products, focusing on ingredient restrictions and child-resistant packaging. The rule bans 66 additives, including certain FDA-approved colorants, and adopts ASTM standards for child-resistant packaging to reduce product appeal to minors. While enforcement of the rule begins in June 2025, FDACS is already enforcing existing statutes and regulations, making early compliance essential for businesses operating in the state.

U.S. Virgin Islands Adult-Use Cannabis Cultivation Applications Open March 31

By Jerrico Perez, Samantha Fow
Mar 20, 2025

The U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Advisory Board (CAB) has confirmed that cannabis cultivation and micro-cultivation license applications will be released on March 31, 2025.

Explore Ethical Considerations in Psychedelic Care with Barine Majewska During the 2025 SXSW Conference

Mar 20, 2025

The 2025 SXSW Conference featured Barine Majewska on its Psychedelics track scheduled for March 8-10. Listen to the panel replay for insights from Barine and other psychedelics professionals about ethical considerations and challenges in psychedelic care.

Minnesota Attorney Jason Tarasek Presents on Cannabis and Hemp Business Opportunities at Lucky Leaf Expo Minneapolis

Mar 20, 2025

Learn about Minnesota’s current cannabis and hemp regulatory landscape and how to start your own business, including licensing, product selection, social equity, and more from Jason Tarasek!

Celebrating 15 Years of Trailblazing Work in Cannabis and Psychedelics Law

By Vicente LLP
Mar 18, 2025

As Vicente LLP celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, we reflect on 15 milestones that highlight our growth, commitment to advocacy, and the important role our firm has played in cannabis law, psychedelics law, and drug policy reform.

The Regulators Are Watching: How New York Cannabis Licensees Should Prepare for Stricter Compliance Enforcement

By Brandon Kurtzman, Neil Willner
Mar 11, 2025

As New York’s cannabis market evolves, regulators are ramping up enforcement. Licensees must have a proactive compliance strategy for their business to avoid fines and penalties. In this insights post, we dive into the key areas of compliance risk under the newly established Trade Practices Bureau, including ownership violations, license stacking, and fraudulent practices. We also highlight proactive steps businesses can take to stay ahead of regulatory changes and protect their licenses.

Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel Educates on Colorado Natural Medicine Business Licensing During Healing Advocacy Fund Webinar

Mar 7, 2025

Vicente partner Joshua Kappel joined Healing Advocacy Fund and the National Psychedelics Association during the “Nuts & Bolts: Colorado Natural Medicine Business Webinar,” which provided insights for business license applicants navigating Colorado’s regulated natural medicine program, including regulatory requirements, business structuring, and legal considerations. Watch the replay!

Colorado SB 25-076: How Would This Bill Affect Colorado’s Cannabis and Natural Medicine Programs?

By Genevieve Meehan, Jerrico Perez
Mar 7, 2025

Have you heard about Colorado SB25-076—Intoxicating Substances & Social Equity Businesses? While state legislators introduced the bill with good intentions to protect public health and safety, some of the provisions could significantly impact businesses and consumers in the Colorado cannabis and natural medicine spaces. A public hearing on the bill will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

Corporate Transparency Act Update: FinCEN Suspends Enforcement

By Charles Alovisetti, Bridgette Nikisher
Mar 5, 2025

The Treasury Department recently suspended enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act’s Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements meaning that businesses failing to submit or update their BOI reports by the March 21 deadline will not face fines, penalties, or enforcement actions. In this Insights post, we discuss the latest developments surrounding CTA enforcement, the Treasury’s plans to limit its scope, anticipated regulatory changes from FinCEN, and ongoing legislative and legal challenges that could reshape compliance obligations.

South Carolina Medical Cannabis and Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Legislative Update

By David M. Ullian
Mar 5, 2025

Cannabis-related legislation is once again on the move in South Carolina with the filing of a bill that would establish a regulated medical cannabis program and several bills that would officially regulate consumable products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids, including the increasingly popular beverages containing hemp-derived Delta-9 THC.

Understanding ESG Requirements for Licensing Colorado Natural Medicine Businesses

By Juliana Todeschi, Joshua Kappel
Mar 4, 2025

Colorado’s Natural Medicine Division has finalized its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements for Natural Medicine Business licensing. These guidelines help applicants create plans that promote sustainability, social impact, and ethical governance. Notably, the rules emphasize honoring Indigenous communities and ensuring transparency in business operations.

Hemp Attorney Michelle Bodian to Discuss Legal Strategies for Hemp-infused Beverage Businesses at NECANN Boston

Feb 28, 2025

Join Vicente partner Michelle Bodian during NECANN Boston, where she will present the session “Sip and Sell Smart: Legal Strategies for the Hemp Beverage Boom” on March 21. During this session, Michelle will discuss the latest developments in hemp beverage regulations in the Northeast and provide tips for businesses to remain compliant in the evolving industry. Register now!

Vicente LLP to Participate in the Global Cannabis Regulators Summit in Washington, DC

Feb 28, 2025

Vicente LLP is excited to participate in the Global Cannabis Regulators Summit on March 25–27, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Partner Shawn Hauser will moderate the panel "Medical Fireside One: Global Cannabis Regulatory Frameworks", exploring the evolution of global cannabis regulations and future frameworks. Partners Charles Alovisetti and Adam Fine will also be in attendance.

[Webinar] Hemp Business Funding 101

Feb 27, 2025

Watch this recorded session to learn about financing strategies for hemp-related businesses, including types of funding, investment compliance, and other industry-specific financial considerations.

Vicente's Annual Austin Social: A Psychedelic & Cannabis Community Event

Feb 25, 2025

Join Vicente LLP on March 8 during SXSW 2025 weekend at a private venue in Austin, Texas to connect with the cannabis and psychedelics community community and support groundbreaking plant medicine research by Field 2 Healed and Dr. Sue Sisley. Event location will be emailed to registrants closer to the event date. Claim your tickets!

Cannabis and Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel Named a 2025 Lawyer of the Year by Law Week Colorado

Feb 21, 2025

Vicente LLP is proud to announce that founding partner Joshua Kappel has been recognized as a 2025 Lawyer of the Year by Law Week Colorado. This honor highlights his outstanding leadership in cannabis and psychedelics law, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping policy such as Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act and Amendment 64, advocating for drug reform nationwide, and guiding businesses in these evolving sectors.

[Webinar] Colorado Natural Medicine Licensing Update and Q&A

Feb 19, 2025

Watch this recorded session, where members of Vicente’s Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies team provide an overview of Colorado’s Natural Medicine program and answer attendee questions related to starting a natural medicine business, facilitator license requirements, manufacturing, healing centers, personal use provisions, property zoning, advertising restrictions and more.

Rhode Island Cannabis Update: Current Market, Proposed Rules and New Business Opportunities

By Meg Nash, Casey Leaver
Feb 18, 2025

Catch up on the current state of Rhode Island's cannabis market, regulatory enforcement trends, highlights from the proposed adult-use rules, and the anticipated cannabis business licensing opportunities on the horizon.

Meet Vicente LLP Cannabis Attorneys at the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association Wisconsin Cannabis Industry & Policy Summit

Feb 12, 2025

Vicente partner Travis Copenhaver and counsel Jason Tarasek will be in attendance at the 3rd Annual Wisconsin Cannabis Industry & Policy Summit on February 27. The summit is hosted by the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA) and the Sokaogon Mole Lake Tribe and sponsored by Vicente LLP. Register now!

Raising Capital for Your Business: Why Companies Should Avoid Non-Accredited Investors

By Charles Alovisetti
Feb 11, 2025

Startups and growing businesses need capital, but should they accept funds from anyone willing to invest? The answer: probably not. In fact, choosing the right investors—particularly accredited investors—can save you time, money, and future headaches. In this Insights post, we discuss what to look for when selecting an investor and the risks of raising funds from unaccredited investors, including disclosure agreements, preemptive rights issues and IPO complications. Plus, considerations when deciding to work with investors outside of the United States.

Vicente LLP Federal and International Cannabis and Psychedelics Law and Policy Update: February 2025

Feb 6, 2025

Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP

[Webinar] Rhode Island Cannabis Update: Draft Rules, Enforcement Trends and Licensing Opportunities

Feb 6, 2025

Watch this session, where Vicente attorney Meg Nash and director of compliance Casey Leaver take a look back at Rhode Island's cannabis market in 2024 and a look ahead at what’s to come in 2025, including what has happened during the transitional period, recent regulatory enforcement actions against current medical and hybrid operators, the proposed regulations that will govern the adult-use market, and how to prepare for the upcoming licensing process.

Cannabis Rescheduling Hearings Postponed: How Did We Get Here and What Happens Next?

By Shawn Hauser, Andrew Livingston
Jan 31, 2025

The much-anticipated hearings on the proposed rulemaking to reschedule cannabis, which were scheduled to begin on January 21, have been postponed for at least three months as a result of an appeal granted by DEA Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney. In this article, we examine a timeline of progress on rescheduling so far and discuss what may happen next and how the new administration may affect the process.

Minnesota Draft Cannabis Rules Provide Clarity on Licensed Cannabis Business Operations

By Jason Tarasek, Colleen Mitchell
Jan 23, 2025

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) recently proposed draft rules to clarify key operational requirements for cannabis businesses, including co-location policies, THC concentrate limits, cultivation canopy measurements, production capacities, and delivery regulations. Make your voices heard! The public comment submission period is open until Wednesday, February 12.

Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Markets: Using Tax Data to Assess Growth in Louisiana, Minnesota and Tennessee

By Andrew Livingston
Jan 22, 2025

Now that many states have regulated cannabinoid hemp alongside medical and adult-use marijuana, hemp cannabinoid market growth trends can be analyzed using comprehensive data, including monthly tax data from product sales. In this article, we analyze market trends in Minnesota, Louisiana and Tennessee using hemp-derived cannabinoid product sales tax data reported by the states.

Vicente LLP Wins Law360’s 2024 Cannabis Practice Groups of the Year Award

Jan 21, 2025

Vicente LLP was once again named a winner of the Law360 Practice Groups of the Year Award in the Cannabis category for 2024! This recognition marks yet another milestone for Vicente and further highlights the firm’s leadership in shaping the legal landscape for the cannabis industry.

New Cannabis Testing Requirements in Massachusetts: What We Know Right Now

By David Ullian, Casey Leaver
Jan 16, 2025

Massachusetts' Cannabis Control Commission has introduced new testing requirements, effective April 1, 2025, to prevent "lab shopping." Key changes include mandatory submission of Test Sample Packages to a single Independent Testing Laboratory, stricter rules for subcontracting tests, and penalties for non-compliance. Read on to learn more about these changes and how to take the necessary steps to ensure compliance and avoid regulatory violations.

Virginia’s ‘Total THC’ Hemp Law Upheld by Fourth Circuit: What It Means for the Hemp Industry

By Neil Willner
Jan 14, 2025

In early January, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a landmark decision in Northern Virginia Hemp & Agriculture v. Commonwealth of Virginia, upholding Virginia’s "total THC" hemp law and confirming the state’s authority to regulate hemp products beyond federal standards. This Insights post dives into Virginia’s “total THC” standard approach to hemp regulation, the court’s final ruling, and its impact on the future of hemp-derived products in Virginia and across the United States.

New Jersey Cannabis Dispensaries Can Now Apply for Consumption Lounge Licenses

By Jennifer Cabrera, Steve Pemberton
Jan 13, 2025

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) began accepting applications for cannabis consumption area endorsements on January 2, 2025. A consumption area endorsement allows existing New Jersey dispensaries (both medicinal and personal use) to offer their patrons a space to consume cannabis at the licensed premises—either in an “indoor” or “outdoor” cannabis consumption area. Learn more about this exciting opportunity!

New York Attorneys to Speak During Cannabis Law Section at 2025 NYSBA Annual Meeting

Jan 10, 2025

Vicente attorneys Michelle Bodian and Neil Willner will be featured speakers during the Cannabis Law Section at the 2025 New York State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting in New York City on January 16. Register now!

Colorado Psychedelics Program: Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 15

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jan 8, 2025

Colorado's Natural Medicine Program has officially opened applications for facilitators and businesses. Prospective licensing applicants can access licensing guides and FAQs published by the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), which include operational guidelines for businesses interested in the cultivation, manufacturing, and testing of natural medicine products and more. In this Bulletin, we examine the remaining open questions for the program, as well as several ongoing controversies, the most significant being the questions of at-home facilitation and microdosing.

Selling Kratom in the United States: Legal Status and Regulatory Challenges

By Charlie Alovisetti, Juliana Todeschi
Jan 7, 2025

Kratom is a growing, billion-dollar industry in the U.S., but the legal landscape for kratom is complex and rapidly evolving. This article examines the current federal and state approaches to kratom regulation and offers insights for operating in this high-risk space.

Florida Cannabis Attorney Sally Peebles to Discuss Legal Perspectives at the 2025 Florida Marijuana Policy Conference

Jan 7, 2025

The 2025 Florida Marijuana Policy Conference, to be held on November 18, will feature Vicente LLP partner Sally Kent Peebles during a Banking, Legal and Finance panel. Sally will provide a legal perspective on the future of adult-use and medical marijuana in Florida.

Maryland Cannabis Administration Releases Draft Regulations for the Social Equity Partnership Grant Program

By Meg Nash, Charles Alovisetti, Bridgette Nikisher
Dec 30, 2024

Maryland has released draft regulations for the Social Equity Partnership Grant Program to promote “qualifying partnerships” between operational cannabis licensees and social equity licensees. This Insights post will break down the key points of these regulations including application limits, grant distribution and restrictions on qualifying partnerships. Public comments are open until January 6, 2025.

Minnesota Cannabis Licensing Opportunities in 2025

By Jason Tarasek
Dec 20, 2024

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has announced a new timeline for cannabis licensing in 2025. Applications for all license types will be accepted between February and March next year. This article breaks down Minnesota’s cannabis business licensing process, social equity licensing opportunities, and upcoming deadlines that applicants should look out for.

Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Releases Draft Social Consumption Establishment Regulations for Informal Public Comment

By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Dec 19, 2024

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released draft regulations for social consumption establishments this week and will hold an informal public comment period through January 23, 2025. Three license types are proposed, including one for current licensed cannabis businesses, one for new or existing non-cannabis businesses, and one for event organizers. Read this article for a breakdown of each license type and what comes next.

[Webinar] Colorado Natural Medicine Ultimate Rules Recap: Preparing for Program Launch

Dec 18, 2024

Join Vicente LLP and Healing Advocacy Fund in a pre-recorded session for an opportunity to hear how Colorado’s Natural Medicine Program rules have come together. We will also discuss business structures and licensing, followed by a Q&A session with leading psychedelic policy experts.

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: December 2024

Dec 17, 2024

Hemp-related legislative and regulatory updates, news and events. Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP!

U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Business License Opportunities

By Colleen Mitchell
Dec 9, 2024

The U.S. Virgin Islands is anticipated to open a highly competitive, merit-based licensing process in early 2025. From understanding residency requirements and application deadlines to preparing essential documents like business plans and financial statements, those interested in securing a cannabis license in the Virgin Islands should be fully prepared to successfully navigate the upcoming application process when applications open. Read this Insights post for more information on application requirements for cultivators, manufacturers, dispensaries, testing facilities, adult-use lounge permits, cannabis use and temporary use permits, on-site consumption permits, and micro-cultivation permits.

Cannabis Financing and Investment CLE to be Presented by Corporate Attorney Charles Alovisetti

Dec 6, 2024

On December 12, Vicente partner Charles Alovisetti will discuss cannabis financing and investing during a CLE session hosted by the Federal Bar Association and myLawCLE. Register now!

Vicente LLP Wins ‘Law Firm of the Year’ at the 2024 Emjays International Cannabis Awards

Dec 6, 2024

We’re thrilled to announce that Vicente LLP was awarded the “Law Firm of the Year” at the 2024 Emjays International Cannabis Awards during MJBizCon in Las Vegas!

Court Halts Enforcement of Corporate Transparency Act

By Charlie Alovisetti, Bridgette Nikisher
Dec 5, 2024

On December 3, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas (Sherman Division) issued a nationwide preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its January 1, 2025 filing deadline. While this injunction remains in effect, the federal government cannot enforce CTA disclosures or the January 1, 2025 filing deadline. Stay tuned - this is a preliminary decision.

Cannabis Presents Economic Opportunity for Tribal Nations

By Jason Tarasek
Dec 3, 2024

Cannabis is opening new doors of economic opportunity for Tribal nations across the country, from the Eastern Band of Cherokee in North Carolina to the White Earth Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota. In states where cannabis sales are not legal or where adult-use dispensaries have not yet opened, Tribal cannabis businesses may have a first-to-market advantage.

Boston Magazine’s 2024 List of Top Lawyers Includes 10 Vicente LLP Attorneys

Dec 2, 2024

Vicente LLP is honored to announce that ten attorneys from our Boston office were selected for inclusion in Boston Magazine’s 2024 “Top Lawyers” list. Each year, Boston Magazine highlights the outstanding legal professionals in the Greater Boston area who blend exceptional legal services with a “genuine commitment to helping their clients.” Congratulations to our Vicente attorneys recognized for their work in Corporate Law, Government and Administrative Law, Civil Law Litigation, Land Use/Environment, Business Law, and Commercial Litigation!

Florida Medical Cannabis Business Licensing Process: What Happens Next for MMTC Applicants?

Nov 22, 2024

It's been over a year since applications for Florida's latest Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) licenses were submitted. What actions can be taken during this waiting period, and what should happen after the Intent to Award notices are issued? Vicente partner Sally Kent Peebles discusses the licensing timeline for Florida's medical cannabis program in this 15-minute on-demand presentation. She highlights key steps to take once awarded an MMTC license, important deadlines, and compliance best practices.

[Webinar] Trademarks 101 for Cannabis & Hemp Businesses

Nov 21, 2024

Building a strong and distinctive brand identity for your business is crucial for driving sales, fostering consumer loyalty, and standing out in any industry, but it is especially important for emerging and rapidly evolving sectors such as cannabis and hemp. Watch this Vicente session to learn about trademarks and why they are essential for protecting your brand's name, logo, and overall image.

Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Honors Meg Nash in 2024 Top Women of Law Awards

Nov 19, 2024

Vicente partner Meg Nash has built an impressive career as a lawyer and she recently earned recognition from Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly as one of the 2024 Top Women of Law. Congratulations, Meg!

Cannabis Trademarks 101

By Jeffrey Welsh
Nov 19, 2024

In an industry that runs on innovation and differentiation, a cannabis brand’s identity is among its most valuable—and most prone to copying—assets.

[Webinar] Bringing Your Cannabis Brand to New York

Nov 14, 2024

If you're exploring an expansion into the Empire State, now is the time to make moves. But before you jump in, many corporate and regulatory factors must be considered, including navigating complicated regulations and structuring compliant agreements. During this on-demand session, Vicente attorneys and special guests from Wyld and Eaton Botanicals discuss New York cannabis regulations and how major brands are getting into the country's largest new cannabis market.

Shawn Hauser Will Participate in MJBizCon’s Women in Leadership Forum to Discuss Lessons Learned in the Cannabis Industry

Nov 13, 2024

MJBizCon will host a Women in Leadership Forum on December 3, which will feature Vicente partner Shawn Hauser and other women cannabis leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss their experiences as women in the cannabis industry. Register now!

Cannabis Financing 101 at Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference with Charles Alovisetti

Nov 13, 2024

On October 8, Vicente partner Charles Alovisetti discussed debt, equity and liquidity strategies and considerations for cannabis startups seeking funding for their business during the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago. Listen now!

Sahar Ayinehsazian Speaks About Cannabis Rescheduling, Credit Risks and Lender Financing at Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Nov 13, 2024

Vicente partner Sahar Ayinehsazian recently discussed cannabis rescheduling and its potential effect on lending, interest rates and financing during the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference. Listen now!

reMind Psychedelics Business Forum at MJBizCon Will Feature Attorney Barine Majewska

Nov 8, 2024

Vicente counsel Barine Majewska will provide insights into starting a business in Oregon and Colorado’s state-regulated psychedelics market during MJBizCon’s pre-conference reMind Psychedelics Business Forum on December 3. Learn more and register now!

Sahar Ayinehsazian to Present in Keynote Address at Benzinga’s California Cannabis Market Spotlight Event

Nov 8, 2024

The Benzinga Cannabis Market Spotlight: California event on November 12 will feature a keynote presentation moderated by Vicente partner Sahar Ayinehsazian about the federal election results and the future of California’s cannabis industry. Register now and join us there!

University of Denver Students for Sensible Drug Policy Educational Series Features Joshua Kappel

Nov 8, 2024

On November 13, Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel will provide training for DU Law students on how to get involved with local and state drug policy during a two-part educational series hosted by Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP).

Cannabis on the Ballot in 2024: Election Recap and Look Ahead with Andrew Livingston

Nov 7, 2024

On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, cannabis legalization measures were on the ballot in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. So, what were the results? Vicente LLP director of economics and research Andrew Livingston will dive into the results of cannabis initiatives in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota during a Rootwurks webinar on November 13. Register now!

Top 5 Considerations for Maryland Cannabis Licensees

By Meg Nash, Casey Leaver, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 7, 2024

Congratulations to those who won a cannabis social equity license in the Maryland lottery! Vicente’s Maryland team created a quick list of items to keep top of mind as you work towards your final license, including reviewing the new draft regulations, submitting supplemental applications, and property considerations.

Vicente LLP Earns Top Rankings in 2025 Best Law Firms® List for Corporate Law, Real Estate, Land Use & Zoning Law and Government Relations Practice

Nov 7, 2024

Vicente LLP has once again received top rankings both nationally and regionally in the 2025 Edition of Best Law Firms® across various practice areas, including national recognition in Land Use and Zoning Law and a Tier 1 ranking in Colorado for Corporate Law and Government Relations Practice.

Amendments to Massachusetts Cannabis Regulations Will Benefit Licensed Cannabis Businesses and Patients

By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Nov 6, 2024

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission approved adult-use and medical-use cannabis regulations to support microbusinesses, home delivery licensees, product transportation, and medical patients, with a proposed effective date of November 22, 2024. The key provisions of the amendments include the removal of requirements for inventory tracking, changes to Microbusiness and Craft Marijuana Cooperative license types, expanded operations for home delivery businesses, and increased medical cannabis patient access. Read on to learn how these proposed amendments may impact cannabis operations in Massachusetts.

New York Accepting Cannabis Business Applications for Adult-Use Processor Type 3 Branding Licenses

By Brandon Kurtzman, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 5, 2024

Are you looking to bring your cannabis brand to New York? The Office of Cannabis Management is now accepting applications for Adult-use Processor Type 3 Branding licenses. Read this article to learn more about this license type, applicant criteria, and how to apply.

NYC Cannabis Loan Fund is Now Accepting Applications from New York Cannabis Entrepreneurs

By Brandon Kurtzman, Bridgette Nikisher
Oct 31, 2024

The Cannabis NYC Loan Fund is offering loans of up to $100,000 for cannabis entrepreneurs. Applications for the first phase, which is available to Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licensees, will be accepted through November 4. Learn more about this program!

Colorado Psilocybin Therapy Program Panel Features Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel

Oct 30, 2024

Join Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel on November 8 for the 2024 Colorado Psychological Association’s Fall Symposium on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. Joshua will discuss the process required to access psilocybin therapy in Colorado, the qualifications and training requirements to become a licensed facilitator, and more during his session. Register now!

Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston Will Discuss National Cannabis Policy During Nevada State Bar Cannabis Conference

Oct 30, 2024

Vicente director of economics and research Andrew Livingston will present on the panel “National Cannabis Policy Perspectives” during the Cannabis Law Section of the Nevada State Bar’s Annual Cannabis Conference on November 5.

[Webinar] Cannabis & Psychedelics On the 2024 Ballot

Oct 24, 2024

Campaign leaders and experts at Vicente LLP and Marijuana Policy Project discuss the details of various cannabis reform initiatives on the 2024 election ballot and potential opportunities in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, and South Dakota's cannabis markets during this webinar. Plus, panelists provide an update on psychedelic reform in Massachusetts.

Florida Cannabis Legalization Discussion on WJCT First Coast Connect Features Sally Peebles

Oct 24, 2024

Vicente’s Florida-based cannabis attorney Sally Peebles recently appeared on WJCT Public Media’s First Coast Connect radio show to discuss Amendment 3, the cannabis legalization initiative set to appear on Florida ballots this year. Listen now!

Colorado Psychedelics Program: Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 14

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 24, 2024

Having completed the initial rulemaking push in July, Colorado regulators are putting the finishing touches on the state’s regulated Natural Medicine program by fine-tuning rules and setting fees. Since Bulletin 13, The Department of Revenue’s Natural Medicine Division released proposed fees for Natural Medicine Businesses. The Department of Regulatory Agencies’ Office of Natural Medicine Licensure recently published proposed revisions to rules related to facilitator licensing and training. Simultaneously, the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, its subcommittees, and the Federally Recognized American Tribes and Indigenous Community Working Group continue to grapple with remaining issues, old and new. In this Bulletin, we first look at big-picture questions such as fees and rule changes. Then, we’ll look at what each group has been working on since the last update.

Hemp-Derived THC Products in California: Overview of U.S. Hemp Roundtable et al. v. California Department of Public Health et al.

By Juliana Todeschi and Shawn Hauser
Oct 24, 2024

In late September, several hemp industry businesses and the U.S. Hemp Roundtable trade group filed a lawsuit against the California Department of Public Health to overturn the new California emergency regulations banning hemp-derived products containing any “detectable” amount of THC. Learn more about the emergency regulations and the lawsuit affecting the future of hemp-derived THC products in California.

New Jersey Cannabis Crackdown: A Look at Recent Enforcement Actions by the Cannabis Regulatory Commission

By Jennifer Cabrera, Casey Leaver, Stephen Pemberton
Oct 17, 2024

Compliance is becoming more important than ever as the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission recently began actively pursuing enforcement actions against license cannabis businesses, resulting in the issuance of thousands of dollars of fines for noncompliance.

[Webinar] Cannabis Rescheduling: Timeline, Tax Strategies & 280E

Oct 17, 2024

Watch this Vicente session to learn about how rescheduling may impact 280E and tax planning! Vicente attorneys, along with special guest tax attorneys from HBK CPAs and Jones & Keller, provide an update on the rescheduling process, including the timeline to a final rule and potential obstacles, along with a deep dive into 280E and tax strategies.

Boston Cannabis Attorney Adam D. Fine Listed in 2024 Massachusetts Super Lawyers® for Business & Corporate Law and Cannabis Law

Oct 11, 2024

Adam D. Fine, managing partner of Vicente LLP’s Boston office, was once again acknowledged in Super Lawyers’ 2024 Massachusetts listing for his outstanding work in Business and Corporate Law and Cannabis Law. Congratulations, Adam!

Corporate Attorney Jeremy Shaw Recognized as a New Leader in Law by Law360’s New England Legal Awards 2024

Oct 7, 2024

Vicente LLP is pleased to announce that partner Jeremy Shaw has been honored as a winner in the prestigious "New Leaders in Law" category at the 2024 New England Legal Awards hosted by Law360. This achievement highlights the outstanding contributions and successes of legal professionals from Massachusetts and across the East Coast. Congratulations, Jeremy, on this well-deserved recognition!

Joshua Kappel Discusses His Work in Psychedelic Policy Reform on Third Wave Psychedelic Podcast

Oct 7, 2024

Vicente founding partner Josh Kappel discusses his extensive work in psychedelic policy reform, Colorado’s Natural Medicine Program and his predictions about the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy across the United States on Third Wave’s “The Psychedelic Podcast.” Listen now!

Hemp Attorney Shawn Hauser Will Discuss the Current State of the Hemp-Derived THC Market with Rootwurks

Oct 7, 2024

In this upcoming Rootwurks webinar, Vicente partner Shawn Hauser will discuss the current state of the legal intoxicating hemp market and what new hurdles hemp companies may face in the coming year. Register to watch on October 23!

5 Tips for Choosing the Right Florida Attorney for Your Cannabis Business

Oct 3, 2024

If you’re interested in opening a cannabis business in Florida, choosing the right legal and compliance team can significantly impact the success and sustainability of your business. Navigating the cannabis industry is not easy due to confusing laws and regulations, difficulty accessing financial services, and other obstacles. Read on for five essential tips to help you find the perfect legal representation for your Florida cannabis operations.

Florida Cannabis Attorney Sally Peebles Will Discuss the Impact of Federal Cannabis Rescheduling During CLAB Conference

Oct 2, 2024

The 7th Annual Cannabis LAB Conference will feature Vicente Florida partner Sally Peebles, who will discuss the future of the cannabis industry as a result of federal cannabis rescheduling. Register now!

Michelle Bodian Slated to Discuss Cannabis Rescheduling and Hemp Beverages at the Wine, Beer and Spirits Conference in Denver, Colorado

Sep 27, 2024

Attend Vicente partner Michelle Bodian’s panel during the Wine, Beer and Spirits Law Conference in Denver, Colorado on October 9. Bodian will discuss “Cannabis and Hemp: Rescheduling, Further Legalization, Intoxicating Hemp Beverages, and More.” Register now!

Raising Capital for Maryland Social Equity Cannabis Businesses

By Charles Alovisetti, Elena Markos
Sep 27, 2024

Maryland recently awarded cannabis business licenses to social equity applicants. If you were one of the lucky lottery winners, now it’s time to focus on raising money for your business. Read this insight for essential considerations around raising capital for Maryland social equity cannabis licensees.

Vicente LLP Federal and International Cannabis and Psychedelics Law and Policy Update: September 2024

Sep 25, 2024

Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP

New Jersey Passes Law to Regulate ‘Intoxicating Hemp Products’

By Sarah Grande, Andrea Golan, Shawn Hauser
Sep 23, 2024

New Jersey is the latest state to regulate “intoxicating hemp products,” with an immediate ban on the sale of products with any detectable amount of THC to individuals under 21 years of age and only allows such products to be sold in state-licensed cannabis businesses. The new law will permit liquor stores licensed by the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to sell intoxicating hemp beverages once those regulations are adopted.

Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Proposes Draft Amended Regulations: Public Comment Period Now Open

By David M. Ullian, Tim Callahan
Sep 19, 2024

Proposed amendments to Massachusetts’ cannabis regulations would significantly impact microbusinesses, home delivery licensees, product transportation, and medical patients. Public comments are being accepted through October 7—now is the time to make your voices heard! Read this article for a summary of the key provisions in the draft amended regulations.

Ongoing Delta-8 THC Legal Battle Moves to the Texas Supreme Court

By Daniel Molina
Sep 16, 2024

The Delta-8 THC battle in Texas continues, with the arena now moving to the Texas Supreme Court. On August 21, 2024, the Texas Department of State Health Services filed an opening brief with the Texas Supreme Court in the case Texas Department of State Health Services v. Sky Marketing Corp. as part of an ongoing effort to ban D8 in Texas, a battle the agency has been waging since 2021.

Jennifer Cabrera Will Discuss Cannabis Rescheduling and Tips for Aspiring Cannabis Lawyers at the 2024 National Interdisciplinary Cannabis Symposium

Sep 13, 2024

Vicente partner Jennifer Cabrera will speak on marijuana rescheduling and pathways for aspiring lawyers at the 2024 National Interdisciplinary Cannabis Symposium in New York City on September 29. Register now!

Hemp Attorney Michelle Bodian Will Discuss Intoxicating Hemp, Evolving Hemp Rules and the New Farm Bill During Zuanic & Associates Webinar

Sep 13, 2024

Join Vicente partner Michelle Bodian and Pablo Zuanic for a live session titled “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Hemp but Were Afraid to Ask” on September 17. Register now!

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: September 2024

Sep 12, 2024

Hemp-related legislative and regulatory updates, news and events. Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP!

DEA Conducts Joint Raid in Texas on Vape Shops Selling High-THC Products

By Daniel Molina, Jason Adelstone
Sep 12, 2024

In August 2024, nine Texas vape shops were shut down after allegedly selling products over the legal THC limit set by state and federal law. Various interpretations of the 2018 Farm Bill and whether cannabinoids such as Delta-8 and THCA qualify as hemp have left a gray area in the legality of hemp-based products. This Insights post explores the THC thresholds of the products seized during the Texas raid and the DEA’s unclear position on synthetic THC and the definition of hemp.

Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek Will Present on the Economic Benefits of Legalizing Cannabis in Wisconsin During The Great Midwest Hemp Fest

Sep 10, 2024

Join Vicente LLP counsel Jason Tarasek at The Great Midwest Hemp Fest on September 29, where he will discuss the benefits of legalizing cannabis in Wisconsin. Register now!

Vicente LLP Cannabis Attorneys Are Headed to the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago

Sep 9, 2024

Join Vicente LLP at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago on October 8 and 9! Partners Charles Alovisetti and Sahar Ayinehsazian will discuss cannabis financing and how rescheduling cannabis affects the credit risk profile of cannabis companies during panels on October 8. Plus, partners Travis Copenhaver and Jeremy Shaw will also be in attendance. Contact us to schedule a meeting during the conference!

Cannabis Rescheduling Hearing Set: What Happens Now?

By Jason Adelstone
Sep 9, 2024

The DEA Hearing on Proposed Rulemaking for cannabis rescheduling will take place on December 2, 2024. What happens next? Read this insights article to learn about the importance of "interested persons" and the administrative law judge appointed to oversee the hearing, the anticipated timeline, the potential impact of the presidential election, and more.

Delaware Cannabis Business License Opportunities

By Jerrico Perez
Sep 6, 2024

If you’re interested in entering the upcoming Delaware adult-use cannabis market, time is running out to apply! Prospective adult-use cultivators, manufacturers, retailers, and testing facilities have until September 30,2024 to submit license applications.

Maryland Cannabis Lawyers at Vicente LLP

Sep 4, 2024

Vicente’s Maryland cannabis lawyers are here to help entrepreneurs form their businesses, get licensed, and run compliant operations.

How to Choose a Trademark for Your Cannabis Brand

By Chelsie Spencer
Sep 3, 2024

A strong trademark is crucial for cannabis businesses to stand out and thrive. This Insights post explores the importance of trademark protection and breaks down the different categories of trademark distinctiveness, from generic to fanciful. By understanding these categories, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions to safeguard and protect their brand identity.

Several Texas Cannabis Reform Measures Set to Appear in November General Election Ballot

By Daniel Molina, Shawn Hauser
Aug 30, 2024

With an upcoming legislative session that will consider medical cannabis expansion, hemp regulation, decriminalization, and other cannabis matters—we have our eyes on Texas! Read the first blog of our Texas series which covers updates on cannabis reform and decriminalization measures in cities like Dallas and Austin, which are set to be on the ballot in November.

[Webinar] Breaking Down the Final Rules for Psychedelic Therapy in Colorado

Aug 28, 2024

Join Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel and Healing Advocacy Fund director Natasia Poinsatte for a reMind webinar on September 10 to learn about Colorado’s final rules for its psychedelic therapy program. Register now!

Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel Will Discuss Colorado Psychedelic-Therapy Program Opportunities at the 2024 CBHC Behavioral Health Conference

Aug 28, 2024

Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel will discuss opportunities for providers and patients in Colorado’s state-regulated psychedelic therapies program during The 2024 Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council conference on September 25. Register now!

Cannabis Attorney Travis Copenhaver Slated to Speak at the Michigan Cannabis Convention

Aug 28, 2024

Vicente LLP Michigan-based partner Travis Copenhaver will discuss opportunities and challenges for the cannabis industry in response to federal marijuana rescheduling at NECANN Michigan on September 20. Register for the conference and contact us to schedule a meeting with Travis!

Colorado Psychedelics Update: Regulators Finalize Natural Medicine Program Rules

By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska
Aug 23, 2024

Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies and Department of Revenue have finalized rules for facilitator licensing and business operations under the Natural Medicine program, which launches January 1. Read on for the latest update on the rules, local government restrictions and proposed licensing and application fees.

Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 13.5: The Birth of a Regulated Psychedelics Program

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 21, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. As the first round of rulemaking for Colorado’s regulated Natural Medicine program comes to a close, Vicente LLP and Psychedelic Alpha provide an overview of the first set of final rules which give a good picture of how the state will regulate facilitators, their training programs, and other Natural Medicine Businesses.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 13: Peaking in July (2024)

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 21, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. The Natural Medicine Advisory Board (“NMAB”), as well as the Federally Recognized Tribes and Indigenous Community Working Group, are continuing to develop recommendations. The Department of Revenue (“DOR”) has concluded its initial rulemaking, having released a final set of consolidated draft rules and held final public comment.

Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek to Present Minnesota Marijuana Industry Update at the 2024 Criminal Justice Institute

Aug 20, 2024

Vicente’s Minnesota-based counsel Jason Tarasek will provide a “Minnesota Marijuana Industry Update” on August 22 at the 2024 Criminal Justice Institute hosted by Minnesota Continuing Legal Education. Register now!

Vicente LLP Attorneys Recognized as Leaders in Cannabis Law and Corporate Law by Best Lawyers® 2025

Aug 15, 2024

Vicente LLP is pleased to announce that 15 of its attorneys were once again recognized in the 2025 edition of the Best Lawyers® awards. Eight attorneys earned spots on The Best Lawyers in America® list, while seven were included in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America.

Help Us Bring Psychedelic Care Ethics Discussion to SXSW 2025

Aug 8, 2024

The SXSW 2025 PanelPicker is now open until August 18. Please take a minute to cast your vote for our panel idea, “Co-Altered States: Being Ethical in Psychedelic Care,” which will be featured at SXSW 2025.

Vicente LLP Will Present Cannabis Compliance and Branding Sessions at the 2024 New Jersey Cannabis Convention

Aug 7, 2024

Join Vicente LLP at NECANN’s 5th Annual New Jersey Cannabis Convention on September 6 and 7! On day 1, Jennifer Cabrera will share insights on IP and licensing for cannabis brands. On day 2, Stephen Pemberton and Casey Leaver will offer compliance tips for successful cannabis business operations in New Jersey. Register for the event and contact us to schedule a meeting with a member of our team!

Cannabis Rescheduling: The DEA Public Comment Period is Complete

By Shawn Hauser
Aug 1, 2024

Last Monday marked the end of the historic DEA public comment period for marijuana’s proposed rescheduling to Schedule III. What happens now and how might election dynamics have an impact?

[Webinar] Maryland Cannabis Real Estate: How to Find and Obtain Compliant Property

Jul 25, 2024

Attorneys and compliance experts from Vicente LLP's Maryland team discuss the requirements, compliance considerations, and best practices that will help make the process of finding compliant real estate for your cannabis business less daunting.

The Current State of Cannabis Reform and Marijuana Policy in European Union Nations

By Jason Adelstone
Jul 24, 2024

Despite growing public support, EU nations face significant legal hurdles in establishing commercial marijuana markets due to international drug treaties and EU regulations. This Insights post highlights the various approaches toward cannabis reform taken by countries like Germany, Malta, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic, and how this could potentially impact future cannabis policies in Europe.

Litigation Attorney Tim Swain and Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston Slated to Speak at the 2024 AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference

Jul 22, 2024

Vicente LLP partner Tim Swain and director of economics and research Andrew Livingston will speak during the AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference in Aurora, CO on August 13. Tim will discuss litigation and forensics, and Andrew will provide insights on the cannabis market’s current conditions and future opportunities post-rescheduling. Register now!

Minneapolis Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek Earns a Spot in 2024 Minnesota ‘Super Lawyers’ List

Jul 19, 2024

For the sixth year in a row, Vicente LLP attorney Jason Tarasek was selected to the 2024 Minnesota ‘Super Lawyers’ list. Congratulations, Jason!

More Green in the Green Mountain State: Cannabis Statutory Changes and New Cultivator Licensing Opportunity in Vermont

By David Ullian, Antonella Velaoras
Jul 18, 2024

Last month, H.612 - An Act Relating to Miscellaneous Cannabis Amendments became law, making a variety of changes to Vermont’s cannabis laws that will have significant implications for the state’s medical and adult-use cannabis industry - particularly for licensed retailers, cultivators, medical patients, and social equity businesses. Read this Insights article to learn about key changes, a new cultivator licensing opportunity, and the impact on the state’s cannabis industry.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 12: May and June 2024

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jul 11, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. After months of meetings and revisions, regulations are close to completion. The rules cover licensing and conduct for facilitators and businesses that cultivate, manufacture or sell natural medicine products. Public comment on the proposed rules ends soon, with upcoming meetings for those interested in learning more and providing feedback.

New Colorado Cannabis Testing Requirements Are Now Effective

By Genevieve Meehan
Jul 5, 2024

Heads up, Colorado cannabis businesses! The Marijuana Enforcement Division's (MED) Reduced Testing Allowance (RTA) program allows qualified businesses to reduce testing frequency. Additionally, Senate Bill 24-76 brings new requirements that stores should be ready to implement by August 6. Read this Insights post to learn how recent regulation changes impact your operations.

Training Program Applications Now Open for Colorado's Natural Medicine Program

By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska, Jeff Fitzgerald
Jul 3, 2024

Facilitator Training Program applications are the first available under Colorado's new Natural Medicine Health program. Learn about the application process in this Vicente Insights article.

Join Vicente LLP at the Ohio Classic Cannabis Industry Event

Jun 26, 2024

Vicente LLP is a proud sponsor of the Ohio Classic, which will take place on Thursday, July 11. Don’t miss your chance to hear insights from Vicente partner Travis Copenhaver and network with our team at this premier business-to-business event. Register now!

Vicente LLP is Expanding to Maryland!

Jun 25, 2024

Vicente LLP has represented Maryland cannabis businesses since the inception of the state’s medical cannabis industry. From assisting with Maryland cannabis license applications and corporate structuring to providing operational compliance guidance and engaging with the Maryland Cannabis Administration, we are committed to our clients’ success. Now, we are formalizing our commitment to Maryland by opening a new office in Bethesda!

Ohio Cannabis Market Discussion Features Vicente LLP Attorneys Brian Vicente and Travis Copenhaver

Jun 25, 2024

Ohio is gearing up to launch adult-use cannabis sales! Join Vicente LLP founding partner Brian Vicente and partner Travis Copenhaver during a July 24 Rootwurks webinar, where they will discuss the regulations for cannabis businesses, what consumers can expect, and the potential economic impact. Register to learn more!

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin 11.5: Rule Review & Roadmap

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jun 13, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #11.5 features a deep dive into the current state of the program's rules. Facilitator training, licensing, and business regulations are all being actively established, with details on license types, qualifications, and operational requirements. The public is encouraged to participate in shaping these rules through written comments and hearings.

Vicente LLP Federal and International Cannabis and Psychedelics Law and Policy Update: June 2024

Jun 13, 2024

Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP

Psychedelics Lawyer Barine Majewska Slated to Discuss State Psychedelic Policy During EntheoNation Annual Plant Spirit Summit

Jun 12, 2024

Vicente LLP counsel Barine Majewska will discuss Colorado and Oregon’s differing approaches to psychedelic policy during the Annual Plant Spirit Summit: Awakening the Condor Eagle Alliance, hosted by EntheoNation, on June 26. Register now for this free online event!

Maryland Legislative and Regulatory Changes Impacting the Cannabis Industry

By Meg Nash
Jun 11, 2024

June has been a busy month for the cannabis industry in Maryland! Read this article for updates regarding statutory and regulatory changes that will shape the industry moving forward, including those related to corporate structuring and locations where licensees can operate.

California Cannabis Attorney Sahar Ayinehsazian Recognized as a Los Angeles Business Journal "Woman of Influence"

Jun 10, 2024

We're thrilled to announce that partner Sahar Ayinehsazianhas been named one of the Los Angeles Business Journal's "Women of Influence: Attorneys" for 2024! The award honors outstanding female legal professionals for their achievements and contributions to the legal field and the Los Angeles community.

Minnesota Cannabis Law Conference Features Vicente LLP Attorneys

Jun 10, 2024

Minnesota CLE is hosting its annual 2024 Cannabis Law Conference on Wednesday, July 31 in Minneapolis. The event features Vicente attorneys Jason Tarasek, Carl Werner, and Andrea Golan. Register now!

Vicente LLP Leads the Rankings in Cannabis and Psychedelics Law in Chambers USA 2024 Guide

Jun 6, 2024

Vicente LLP is thrilled to announce that we are the first—and only—law firm to be ranked by Chambers USA in the top tier for both cannabis and psychedelics law, further cementing our position as the unquestioned leader in drug law and policy.

Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Reviewing Host Community Agreements for Compliance With New Regulations

By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Jun 5, 2024

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission is now issuing formal Requests for Information and Notices of Deficiency to license applicants, licensees, and host communities, and is requesting the submission of a compliant HCA or HCA Waiver. This process could cause delays in the initial application, license renewal, and final licensure processes. Learn more about the HCA reviews and how to request a license renewal extension in this Vicente Insights article.

Connect with Vicente LLP at the Hemp Beverage Conference and Festival in Minneapolis!

Jun 3, 2024

Join Vicente LLP in Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 7-8 for the inaugural Hemp Beverage Conference and Festival, hosted by the Hemp Beverage Alliance! Partner Michelle Bodian will participate in a panel offering state updates on hemp regulations, the farm bill and more at the conference. The festival will be held the following day, and Vicente attorneys Jason Tarasek and Michelle Bodian will attend. Schedule a meeting with us!

Cannabis Lawyer Jennifer Cabrera Will Discuss New Jersey’s Cannabis Market During Benzinga Spotlight Event

Jun 3, 2024

Vicente LLP partner Jennifer Cabrera will discuss strategies for shifting the illicit market to a regulated, legal framework during the Benzinga Cannabis Market Spotlight: New Jersey event on Monday, June 17 in New Brunswick, NJ. Register now!

[Webinar] Minnesota Cannabis Business Licensing Opportunities and Updates to the Regulated Program

May 30, 2024

Watch this update on the implementation of Minnesota's cannabis market, where members of Vicente’s Minnesota team discuss the process so far, dive into key updates from the newly adopted legislation, examine upcoming licensing opportunities, and offer best practices for preparing to enter or expand into this market

Your Voice Matters: Help Transfer Cannabis out of Schedule I

By Shawn Hauser
May 29, 2024

We are at a historic and critical moment for cannabis reform, as the DOJ and HHS/FDA have proposed rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III. The DEA is accepting public comments until July 22, 2024 via the Federal eRulemaking Portal, so now is the time to take action and make your voice heard!

Florida Cannabis Attorney Sally Peebles Discusses the Potential Impact of Cannabis Legalization in Florida with Rootwurks

May 29, 2024

Vicente LLP Florida-based partner Sally Kent Peebles joined Rootwurks for a webinar to discuss the campaign to legalize cannabis in Florida, what legalization could look like in the state, and what impact legalization in Florida would have on the cannabis industry and marijuana consumers across the country.

Newly Enacted Hemp Laws in 2024: Key Regulatory Updates Across the US

By Andrea Golan
May 28, 2024

A wave of new state laws continues to reshape the hemp industry in 2024. Read this Insight about Connecticut’s strict approach to THC content, Oregon’s hemp product registration process, conditions for interstate transport of work-in-progress hemp material from Utah, and more.

[Webinar] Colorado Psychedelics Update: A Deep Dive into the Natural Medicine Health Act

May 23, 2024

Watch this session hosted by Vicente’s Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies team. We dive into the rules and discuss what you need to know to be prepared to participate in Colorado's Natural Medicine program launching on January 1, 2025!

Cannabis Rescheduling: The DEA's Proposed Rule and the Supporting OLC Opinion

By Jason Adelstone
May 21, 2024

The DEA published its proposed rule to move marijuana from schedule I to schedule III on May 21, and the 60-day public comment period has officially opened. The DEA also published an opinion from the Office of Legal counsel that provides a thorough analysis supporting why placing marijuana in schedule III is appropriate and legally justified. Read this insight for a high-level overview of the proposed rule and the OLC Opinion.

Marijuana Rescheduling Part II: Why Opponents Continue to Have No Idea What They Are Talking About

By Jason Adelstone
May 20, 2024

In a recent House Committee meeting with DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, Rep. Andrew S. Clyde voiced his opposition to removing marijuana from Schedule I based on public safety reasons, but then contradicted himself by stating marijuana is “not as dangerous as some of the others we have talked about” (the meeting focused primarily on fentanyl’s harms to communities). This blog post addresses the false narratives and misconceptions that opponents of cannabis reform continue to promote.

Minnesota OCM Bill Makes Significant Changes to the Regulated Cannabis Program

By Colleen Mitchell, Yolanda Clarke
May 20, 2024

Key updates to Minnesota's cannabis program under the OCM Bill include a lottery licensing process for social equity applicants in the Summer of 2024, early-start cultivation, new social equity criteria for military veterans and small farmers, and license caps on certain licenses.

Key Takeaways for the Hemp Industry from the House's Draft Text for 2023 Farm Bill and DEA's Proposed Rules to Reschedule Marijuana

By Michelle Bodian
May 17, 2024

This was a big week for hemp (as well as marijuana)! The proposed rules to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) were released and will be officially published in the federal register on May 21, 2024. Some of the language is relevant to hemp and hemp products. Additionally, the U.S. House of Representatives released draft text for the 2023 Farm Bill. Read this insight for key takeaways.

Vicente LLP Heads to Minneapolis for CANNRA 2024 External Stakeholder Meeting

May 16, 2024

Will you be in Minneapolis for the CANNRA 2024 External Stakeholder Meeting? Several members of the Vicente LLP team will be in attendance! Senior associate Jason Adelstone will discuss international considerations during the closing plenary on June 5, and partners Adam Fine and Michelle Bodian, director of regulatory policy Jen Flanagan, and counsel Jason Tarasek will also be in attendance!

Vicente LLP Tri-State Update: May 2024

May 16, 2024

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut

New York LLC Transparency Act Update

By Charlie Alovisetti, Daniel Molina
May 15, 2024

The New York LLC Transparency Act, which requires certain businesses to disclose ownership information to the state, was recently updated. Read this insight to learn what businesses in all industries need to know about the new law, including deadlines and penalties for noncompliance.

Vicente LLP to Join the Natural Medicine Discussion at the 2024 Aspen Psychedelic Symposium

May 14, 2024

Join Vicente LLP attorneys at the 2024 Aspen Psychedelic Symposium for a weekend of panels, groundbreaking research, and firsthand insights into the transformative world of psychedelic medicines. This two-day gathering, sponsored by Vicente, will take place in Aspen, Colorado, from May 31 to June 1. Register now!

Brian Vicente to Keynote Southwest Cannabis Convention

May 13, 2024

Vicente LLP founding partner Brian Vicente will be the keynote speaker at the upcoming Southwest Cannabis Convention in Las Cruces, NM. Register now!

On the Horizon for Hemp: Pending State Regulatory Revisions and Open Comment Periods

By Casey Leaver
May 13, 2024

In the wake of changing laws and mandates for state agencies to regulate certain components of hemp licensing and production, there are a few states on the move with rules and regulations available for review or anticipated shortly. Read this insight about Kentucky’s new emergency rules, Rhode Island’s proposed definition of “consumable,” locality control over smokable hemp sales in Virginia, and more.

University of Minnesota’s 2024 Public Health Institute Will Feature Cannabis Lawyer Jason Tarasek’s Insights on Cannabis and Public Health

May 9, 2024

Vicente LLP counsel Jason Tarasek was invited to provide his insights on the future of cannabis in public health during the 2024 Public Health Institute at the University of Minnesota on May 21.

Vicente LLP Founding Partner Brian Vicente Will Discuss His Cannabis Law Achievements During Grinnell College Alumni Award Recipient Panel

May 8, 2024

Vicente LLP founding partner Brian Vicente will participate in the Class of 1999 Alumni Award Recipients Panel during the 2024 Grinnell College Reunion Weekend on May 31. The panel discussion will focus on Brian’s extensive work in cannabis law since his graduation from Grinnell.

Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston Discusses Cannabis Rescheduling and the Future of the Industry During Rootwurks Webinar

May 7, 2024

On May 8, Vicente’s director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, is joining Rootwurks for a webinar to break down what it will mean for the cannabis industry now that the DEA is making moves to reclassify cannabis into schedule III—and what work for legalization remains to be done. Register now!

Rescheduling Cannabis Shifts The Paradigm By Finally Recognizing Its Medical Value

By Shawn Hauser
May 7, 2024

Vicente LLP partner Shawn Hauser argues in a new Marijuana Moment op-ed that the federal decision to reschedule cannabis is “a historic and critically important shift”—with the government “finally (and officially) recognizing the efficacy and safety of cannabis for medical use.”

[Webinar] Cannabis Rescheduling: Implications and Next Steps

May 3, 2024

Watch this special briefing featuring Vicente LLP leaders who have been deeply immersed in the federal scheduling issue, along with Mitzi Keating, a CPA and partner at Citrin Cooperman.

4 Major Implications of Cannabis Moving to Schedule III

By Andrew Livingston, Jason Adelstone, Shawn Hauser
Apr 30, 2024

After 50 years of being in the most restrictive schedule alongside drugs like heroin and PCP, the DEA will move to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, where the plant’s medical benefits will finally be recognized by the federal government. Read this article for answers to four of the most important questions about the effects Schedule III will have on cannabis and society.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #11: March & April 2024

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 30, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #11 features summaries of the draft rules covering licensing and financial interests and general/operational rules, the stakeholder meeting feedback on those rules, and notes from the combined subcommittee meeting on April 12 and the full Natural Medicine Advisory Board meeting on April 19.

[Webinar] Licensing Opportunities in Kentucky: Medical Cannabis and Hemp

Apr 30, 2024

Are you an entrepreneur or current hemp business interested in entering Kentucky's upcoming medical cannabis market or current hemp market? Watch this recorded session to receive the valuable information you need to get started. Vicente’s cannabis and hemp attorneys will dive into Kentucky’s medical cannabis and adult-use cannabinoid programs, discuss the markets and licensing opportunities, and offer best practices to help you reach your business goals in this new market.

Florida Cannabis Lawyer Sally Kent Peebles Will Discuss Medical Marijuana and Real Estate During CREW Jacksonville Event

Apr 29, 2024

On May 14, CREW Jacksonville is hosting an educational event where Sally will cover the current laws surrounding medical marijuana and real estate in Florida, the adult use initiative, and how to take advantage of upcoming opportunities to serve the state’s booming industry. Register now!

Marijuana Rescheduling: Why Opponents Have No Idea What They Are Talking About

By Jason Adelstone
Apr 29, 2024

After listening to the House Oversight and Accountability Committee Hearing with the Commissioner of the FDA on April 11, one conclusion was reinforced—opponents of marijuana reform are misinformed and rely on misstating facts to support their position. Those against moving marijuana into schedule III are making their voices heard, but almost universally, those voices simply do not understand what schedule III would mean.

Minnesota Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek To Present Cannabis Law Update at Minnesota Women Lawyers 2024 Solo and Small Firm Summit

Apr 26, 2024

On May 2, Vicente LLP counsel Jason Tarasek will provide a 2024 cannabis law update for those attending the “2024 Solo and Small Firm Summit”, hosted by Minnesota Women Lawyers.

New York Cannabis Lawyer Jennifer Cabrera Will Share Legal Insights During Cannabis Real Estate Summit Series

Apr 26, 2024

Vicente LLP partner Jennifer Cabrera will discuss the latest developments in New York cannabis law during the Cannabis Real Estate Summit in NYC on May 1! Register now!

Colorado Natural Medicine Program Draft Rules Released And Public Hearing Scheduled

By Barine Majewska
Apr 24, 2024

DORA recently presented additional draft rules for Colorado’s regulated natural medicine market to the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, focused on facilitator conduct and relationships, administrative sessions, informed consent, record keeping and advertising. DORA will host a virtual public hearing on the new rules on April 26 and the Natural Medicine Division of the Department of Revenue will host a stakeholder meeting on Healing Center requirements on May 1. These are important opportunities to make your voices heard! Read this article for details on the rules and instructions for joining the meetings.

Psychedelics Lawyer Joshua Kappel Will Discuss Microdosing 101 At NeueHouse Educational Event in NYC

Apr 22, 2024

Curious about microdosing psychedelics? Join Vicente LLP psychedelics attorney Joshua Kappel on April 25 at NeueHouse in New York City for a night filled with education, resources, and legality around microdosing. RSVP now!

Kentucky Medical Cannabis Licensing Update: New Bill and Regulations

By Yolanda Clarke, Colleen Mitchell
Apr 19, 2024

In an exciting week for the nascent Kentucky medical cannabis program, interested stakeholders were provided abundant new information to inform their business goals. Read this article for details on the new bill and regulations, and key licensing details—including medical cannabis business license caps.

Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek Will Provide Industry Update During 2024 Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association Annual Conference

Apr 17, 2024

Jason Tarasek, counsel at Vicente LLP, will participate in a "Cannabis Update" panel at the 2024 Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association’s Annual Conference on April 21. Register now!

Vicente LLP Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: April 2024

Apr 12, 2024

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #10.1: Legislative Update

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 9, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #10.1 features Vicente LLP's review of SB 24-198, the first legislative update since the passing of SB23-290 in 2023, which implemented the NMHA.

Texas Consumable Hemp Program Rules Are Under Review

By Daniel Molina, Shawn Hauser
Apr 9, 2024

Every four years, Texas agencies must review adopted rules and that time has come for the Lone Star State's Consumable Hemp Program. As businesses and consumers navigate the Texas hemp market, it's important to understand the rules, rulemaking process, and impending deadlines. If you participate in Texas' booming hemp market, now is the time to make your voices heard as the comment period for this rule review is open through April 22, 2024.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #10: March 2024

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 6, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #10 focuses on updates from the recent meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, where draft rules for Facilitator licensing and training were discussed.

Vicente Psychedelics Attorneys Headed to San Francisco for Chacruna Psychedelic Culture Conference

Apr 5, 2024

Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel and counsel Barine Majewska will be at the upcoming “Cultivating Roots for Cultural Change: the Bay Area’s Annual Spring Conference on Plant Medicines & Psychedelic Science.” Hosted by Chacruna, the event will take place on April 27 and 28, 2024, at the historical Brava Theater Center in San Francisco, California.

Vicente Attorneys Will Sponsor and Attend Bridging the Worlds Psychedelics Conference

Apr 5, 2024

On April 18, 2024, Vicente LLP attorneys Joshua Kappel and Barine Majewska will attend the “Bridging the Worlds: The Confluence of Indigenous Wisdom and Psychedelic Science” conference at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO. Vicente is a sponsor of the event, which will explore the future of psychedelic research in the context of its historical and cultural significance.

[Webinar] From Maryland Lottery to Cannabis Business License: Priorities, Strategies & Solutions

Apr 5, 2024

Watch this informative webinar with members of Vicente’s Maryland and Corporate teams and Cannabis Capital Advisors’ Christopher Stefan. Panelists will guide attendees with essential next steps to successfully navigate Maryland’s cannabis industry, including insights into the application review process, compliance requirements, and financing options for raising capital to build an operational cannabis business in Maryland.

Key Takeaways from Maryland Cannabis Administration’s Proposed Emergency Regulations

By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Apr 4, 2024

The Maryland Cannabis Administration published proposed Emergency Regulations with significant changes, including requirements for proof of capitalization and new limitations on Management Agreements concerning branding and capping annual fees. Read this Insights article for the top things to know about the new regulations.

Vicente LLP Mid-Atlantic Update: March 2024

Apr 4, 2024

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland

Jason Tarasek to Present at Lucky Leaf Expo on Budding Opportunities in Minnesota's Cannabis Market

Apr 3, 2024

On Saturday, April 27, at 1:30 p.m., Lucky Leaf Expo participants will have the chance to listen to Vicente LLP counsel Jason Tarasek share his insights on how to set up a cannabis business in Minnesota’s newly formed adult-use recreational cannabis market. Register now!

Vicente LLP is Headed to Florida for the 2024 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Apr 2, 2024

Join us at the 2024 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference on April 16-17 in Hollywood, Florida! You can find us on stage discussing cannabis banking and business diversification and connect with our attorneys and our director of compliance during the conference.

California Cannabis THC Content May Be Less Inflated Due to Required Lab Testing Standardization

By Andrea Golan, Genevieve Meehan
Apr 1, 2024

For years, the efficacy of cannabis lab test results has been widely discussed across the California cannabis industry due to inflated potency test results and inconsistencies in results due to labs using different methodologies for testing cannabis. This has changed with the implementation of lab testing standardization.

[Webinar] Cannabis IP Strategies: A Forward-Looking Discussion with Patent & Trademark Specialists

Mar 28, 2024

Watch this pre-recorded session to learn about the future of intellectual property for cannabis and hemp products with rescheduling on the horizon. This webinar will feature a discussion with VLLP IP specialists regarding patent, IP and trademark protection, cannabis research, and what may change with potential federal marijuana rescheduling.

International Narcotics Control Board’s Use of “May” in 2023 Report Hints at Evolving Global Cannabis Stance

By Jason Adelstone
Mar 21, 2024

The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) may be taking a more measured approach to cannabis. In their 2023 report, INCB used the word "may" when discussing potential inconsistencies between US state legalization and international treaties. This subtle shift in language suggests a more open-minded approach. This blog post explores the significance of this change in the report’s language and what it might mean for the future of global cannabis legalization.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #9: February/March 2024

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Mar 20, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #9 focuses on updates from the recent meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and listening sessions held by the Department of Revenue and the Department of Regulatory Agencies Stakeholder Engagement Meeting.

Jerrico Perez Will Discuss the Current Legal Cannabis Landscape at PLI’s Cannabis Legal and Business Fundamentals 2024 Event

Mar 18, 2024

Vicente LLP partner Jerrico Perez is slated to speak on the panel during the Practising Law Institute’s CLE program, “Cannabis: Legal and Business Fundamentals 2024” on April 4! Register now!

Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston Will Discuss Research Challenges in Cannabis and Psychedelic Markets at The Emerald Conference

Mar 15, 2024

On April 2, The Emerald Conference will feature a talk by Vicente LLP director of economics and research Andrew Livingston on how variations between the cannabis and psychedelic markets may influence research design, data collection, and overall program evaluation. Register to attend and learn more!

Vicente LLP Joins Industry Leaders at National Cannabis Industry Association’s Colorado Stakeholder Summit

Mar 15, 2024

The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) is hosting a Stakeholder Summit in Colorado on April 4, and Vicente LLP is a Silver Sponsor. The event brings together key figures in the cannabis industry, including policymakers and regulators, to discuss and drive positive change within the cannabis industry. Vicente LLP will have a strong presence at the summit, with several members of our team attending, including the firm’s founding partner, Brian Vicente. Register now!

Jason Tarasek Will Discuss Legal Best Practices for Cannabis at Minnesota Events During MNFEA's 2024 Annual Conference

Mar 15, 2024

The Minnesota Festival and Events Association (MNFEA) is holding its annual conference March 20-22 in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. The conference offers educational sessions on current and future challenges in the event industry. One session, "The Legalization of Cannabis & Events," features cannabis lawyer Jason Tarasek. Register now!

Join Vicente LLP in Maryland for the National Cannabis Industry Association’s Stakeholder Summit

Mar 15, 2024

The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) is hosting a Stakeholder Summit in Maryland on April 2, and Vicente LLP is a Silver Sponsor. Register now!

Vicente LLP Partner Jerrico Perez Selected for 2024 Super Lawyers Colorado Rising Stars

Mar 13, 2024

We are thrilled to share that Vicente LLP partner Jerrico Perez Bennett was selected to the 2024 Rising Stars listing by Super Lawyers for her exceptional work in administrative law in Colorado. Super Lawyers, a branch of Thomas Reuters, is a prestigious rating service that acknowledges outstanding lawyers across over 70 practice areas who have achieved high peer recognition and professional success. 

Maryland Cannabis Licensing Update: Priority Actions After Lottery Selection

By Meg Nash
Mar 12, 2024

The Maryland Cannabis Administration's first license lottery is on March 14th. This Insights post will help all applicants, regardless of the outcome, understand the next steps. Those selected will go through background checks and receive conditional licenses. Those who were not selected can retain their application for future rounds, potentially reserved for social equity applicants.

Minnesota’s Proposed Cannabis Legislation Would Provide Early-Mover Licensing Opportunities for Social Equity Business Applicants

By Jason Tarasek, Yolanda Clarke
Mar 12, 2024

Minnesota lawmakers are proposing a bill to reshape the state's adult-use cannabis market, prioritizing social equity business applicants. The bill would grant social equity applicants a head start through temporary licenses allowing them to prepare for full licensure. This Insights post highlights social equity applicant criteria, limits on the total number of cannabis business licenses, and additional details to this recently introduced bill.

Model Host Community Agreement Released by Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission: What You Need to Know

By David M. Ullian, Tim Callahan
Mar 7, 2024

This Insights post provides an overview of recent changes impacting Massachusetts cannabis businesses. We break down the new Model Host Community Agreement (HCA), explaining its purpose, usage, and accessibility. Additionally, we explore the updated application and renewal processes, highlighting the mandatory inclusion of compliant HCAs or waivers. This blog serves as a valuable resource for both new and existing cannabis businesses seeking to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape in Massachusetts.

[Vicente LLP Event] A Cannabis Community Gathering During NECANN Boston with Anderson Porter Design and Mercury Public Affairs

Mar 7, 2024

Vicente LLP, Anderson Porter Design, and Mercury Public Affairs are thrilled to host an exclusive happy hour during NECANN Boston on March 22, and you’re invited!

Florida Hemp Industry Breaking News: Legislature Passes Bill Tightening Restrictions on Hemp-Derived Products

By Sally Kent Peebles
Mar 7, 2024

The Florida legislature has passed a bill, SB 1698, that will limit the amount of THC allowed in hemp-derived products and ban the sale of products containing certain substances like delta-8 THC. This comes amid a trend of stricter hemp regulations across the US. This Insights post summarizes the key points of the new Florida law and highlights the challenges faced by the hemp industry due to evolving regulations.

Colorado's Draft Natural Medicine Rules: Full Breakdown & Commentary

By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Mar 5, 2024

Vicente LLP provides a full breakdown of the first set of draft rules regarding Colorado's regulated psychedelics program. The thirty-nine pages of draft rules cover facilitator licensing and training programs, representing months of work by the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and state regulators.

Michelle Bodian to Present “Navigating the Hemp Haze: State of the Union on Intoxicating Hemp Products” at 2024 NOCO Hemp Expo

Mar 4, 2024

Join Vicente LLP partner Michelle Bodian on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the NOCO Hemp Expo in Estes Park, Colorado for her speaking session “Navigating the Hemp Haze: State of the Union on Intoxicating Hemp Products”. Register now!

Michelle Bodian Slated to Discuss Evolution of Hemp at NECANN Boston Cannabis Convention

Mar 4, 2024

Join Vicente LLP partner Michelle Bodian on Friday, March 22, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. ET during the New England Cannabis Convention in Boston at the Hynes Convention Center for her panel “Blink and You’ll Miss It! The Evolution of Hemp Cannabinoids.” You won’t want to miss it!

International Cannabis Update: Germany Joins Malta and Luxembourg in Liberalizing Marijuana Policy

By Jason Adelstone
Feb 27, 2024

Germany's recent enactment of a marijuana decriminalization bill marks a significant development in European drug policy. While falling short of full legalization, the new law allows for decriminalized possession, home cultivation, and participation in cannabis clubs. This blog post provides a concise overview of the new legislation, its potential impact, and its wider implications for the evolving European cannabis landscape.

New Year, New Rules: Updated Oregon Psilocybin Services Regulations Now in Effect

By Yolanda Clarke
Feb 27, 2024

Oregon's psilocybin program has updated its regulations, clarifying existing rules and addressing new areas like data reporting and facilitator training. Key changes involve distinguishing between mandatory anonymized data collection and optional personal information from clients, requiring state licensing or specific exemptions for facilitator training programs, and emphasizing nondirective facilitation with support resources instead of advice. Read this Insights post to learn more about the recent rule changes for psilocybin in Oregon.

Colorado's Draft Natural Medicine Rules: A High-Level Overview

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 27, 2024

Vicente LLP shares a high-level overview of the first draft rules for Colorado's regulated natural medicine market. These draft rules focus on facilitator qualifications, education requirements, and training programs.

Washington, D.C. Medical Cannabis Program Update: Open Application Periods for Retail Licenses and Increased Enforcement Against Unlicensed Operators

By David M. Ullian
Feb 26, 2024

Washington, D.C. will soon be accepting applications for new medical cannabis retail licenses. The application process is divided into two periods, with Social Equity Applicants getting priority and an earlier application window. This blog details the two available license types, eligibility requirements, and the application process. Additionally, it outlines new enforcement actions against unlicensed I-71 cannabis “gifting” businesses.

Sally Kent Peebles Partners with Cannabis LAB for Jacksonville Area Cannabis Business Networking Event

Feb 21, 2024

Join Vicente LLP Florida partner Sally Kent Peebles at Cannabis LAB's industry social in Jacksonville on Thursday, February 29th from 6-9 p.m. ET at the Mellow Mushroom in Avondale! Register now.

You’re Invited! Vicente x Grasslands Present: Third Annual ATX Psychedelics + Cannabis Community Gathering During SXSW

Feb 21, 2024

RSVP to attend our private event and fundraiser during SXSW in Austin, co-hosted with Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency.

Vicente LLP Federal and International Cannabis and Psychedelics Law and Policy Update: February 2024

Feb 20, 2024

Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: February 2024

Feb 20, 2024

Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #8.1: Recommendation Round-Up

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 15, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #8.1 gives context to the 123 recommendations which will form the basis of the regulated nature medicine program approved by Colorado voters in November 2022.

Missouri Updates and New Licensing Opportunities

By Colleen Mitchell
Feb 14, 2024

Missouri's cannabis market is expanding rapidly, offering a new opportunity for microbusinesses. The state plans to issue 48 microbusiness licenses in summer 2024, allowing smaller players to enter the cultivation, processing, and dispensary sectors. However, applications are competitive and require careful preparation, including team building, business formation, and real estate acquisition. This Insights post provides key details about the licensing process and eligibility criteria.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #8: January 2024

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 14, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #8 focuses on updates on the NMAB's initial set of recommendations for the state’s regulated natural medicine program

Vicente LLP Southeast U.S. Regional Update: February 2024

By Sally Kent Peebles, David Ullian
Feb 13, 2024

Southeast cannabis-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news

Corporate Transparency Act Compliance: What You Need to Know

By Jeremy Shaw, Sahar Ayinehsazian
Feb 13, 2024

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), effective January 1, 2024, requires many businesses to disclose ownership information. This Insights blog explains who needs to comply, what details to report, and key deadlines. Failing to comply can lead to fines or even imprisonment. Get help understanding exemptions and navigating the CTA's new reporting requirements to ensure your business stays compliant.

The Massachusetts Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund: What You Need to Know

By David M. Ullian
Feb 13, 2024

Massachusetts launched the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund to aid qualified cannabis businesses disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition. Licensed businesses or applicants meeting specific criteria, like Social Equity Program participants, can access grants or loans (up to $50,000 now!). Apply online and learn more about future programs before the February 15th deadline.

New Funding Opportunity for Maryland’s Social Equity Cannabis Business Applicants

By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Feb 7, 2024

Maryland's Cannabis Business Assistance Loan/Grant Fund is offering grants to help social equity applicants cover costs associated with obtaining a cannabis business license. The program reimburses up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $5,000. Applications open February 19th and close March 20th. Read this Insights post to learn more about eligibility, qualifying expenses, and how to apply.

South Carolina Cannabis Update: Legislative Developments for Medical Cannabis and Hemp Products

By David M. Ullian
Feb 6, 2024

The South Carolina General Assembly is revisiting medical cannabis legalization in 2024 with the SCCCA. This revised bill would allow qualified patients with doctor recommendations to purchase limited amounts of infused and extracted cannabis products from licensed pharmacies. Additionally, South Carolina may soon regulate hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 through a separate bill requiring licensing, testing, and age restrictions. This Insights post explores both initiatives and their potential impact on the state's future cannabis landscape.

North Carolina Consideration of Cannabis Reform to Continue: Medical Cannabis & Hemp-Derived Products

By David M. Ullian
Feb 6, 2024

The North Carolina Legislature is expected to revisit medical cannabis access through the North Carolina Compassionate Care Act (NCCCA) once the legislative session begins in 2024. Public support is strong, and the bill would allow patients with debilitating conditions to purchase cannabis from licensed centers. Additionally, the state may soon regulate hemp-derived and kratom products, requiring licenses and testing for production and retail sales. Read this Insights post for more information on North Carolina’s Compassionate Care Act.

Minnesota Cannabis Regulators Announce Plans to Launch Adult-Use Dispensaries by Summer 2024

By Jason Tarasek
Feb 2, 2024

Minnesota dispensaries could be a reality by summer! The OCM unveiled an ambitious plan to speed up the launch, proposing temporary regulations and licensing reforms. Focusing on social equity, product availability, and education, they are streamlining the process by removing initial premise requirements, local government involvement, and even suggesting a new social equity classification. Read this Insights post for the latest update on Minnesota’s cannabis business regulations.

[Webinar] The Power of ESOPs: Broad-based Efficiency and Growth Strategies for the Cannabis Industry

Feb 1, 2024

Watch this recorded webinar with Vicente partner Jeremy Shaw, Morrison Cohen partner Tali Newman, and VP of CSG Partners Andrew Nikolai. Panelists will provide an in-depth overview of ESOPs in the cannabis industry, the unique federal tax-exempt status of ESOPs, and why certain cannabis businesses are ideal candidates for ESOP restructuring. Register now!

Social Equity and Interstate Competition: Maryland Cannabis Regulation Under Scrutiny in Federal Court

By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Jan 31, 2024

A recent lawsuit filed against the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) threatens to delay the highly anticipated cannabis business license lottery. The lawsuit alleges that the MCA's social equity licensing program unfairly favors Maryland residents, potentially violating the Dormant Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. This blog post explains the specifics of the lawsuit, its potential impact on the licensing process, and the broader legal questions surrounding residency requirements in cannabis licensing.

The DEA’s Scheduling of Marijuana: What Happens After the DEA Publishes Its Rule?

By Jason Adelstone
Jan 30, 2024

On August 29, 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) sent the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) its recommendation to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (“CSA”). Since then, the marijuana industry has waited in suspense for the DEA to make the final call as to what schedule marijuana will be placed. Read this Insights post that outlines the complex process of marijuana rescheduling in the US and outlines the key steps involved, from rule publication to review and final rule, emphasizing the critical role of stakeholder engagement in securing a Schedule III classification.

Vicente LLP Included in Law360’s 2023 Cannabis Practice Groups of the Year

Jan 30, 2024

We are proud to announce that Vicente LLP has been recognized as a top performer in the industry, landing on Law360’s prestigious Cannabis Practice Groups of the Year list for 2023!

Vicente LLP Mid-Atlantic Update: December 2023

Jan 23, 2024

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #7: December 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Jan 18, 2024

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #7 focuses on updates from the recent subcommittee meetings.

Shawn Hauser Slated to Speak During INCBA Hemp Law and Policy Webinar for Cannabis Operators

Jan 11, 2024

The International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA) will feature Vicente LLP partner Shawn Hauser in an upcoming webinar, "Is the Grass Really Greener? Law & Policy Primer for Cannabis Operators Considering Hemp" on January 17, 2024. Register now!

Colorado’s Marijuana Regulatory Landscape: Navigating the 2024 Rule Changes

By Genevieve Meehan
Jan 11, 2024

The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (“MED”) implemented new rules that became effective on January 8th, 2024. Read on to learn more about these important regulatory changes and how they may impact your marijuana business.

Vicente LLP Attorneys Recognized in 5280 Magazine’s 2024 List as Top Marijuana Lawyers

Jan 4, 2024

Vicente LLP attorneys Shawn Hauser, Jerrico Perez, Christian Sederberg, and Brian Vicente were recognized by 5280 magazine in its annual "Denver's Top Lawyers 2024" list of the city's most respected attorneys.

Jason Tarasek Slated to Discuss Minnesota Cannabis Legalization During 2024 Annual Appellate Practice Institute

Jan 3, 2024

Jason Tarasek will take the stage at the 2024 Annual Appellate Practice Institute on February 23 for a panelist discussion covering Minnesota cannabis regulatory framework issues on appeals, as well as the impact on criminal law and expungements.

Shawn Hauser Dives into Federal Cannabis Reform with Opus Consulting

Dec 21, 2023

Shawn Hauser recently joined the “One Minute With…” podcast hosted by Jacques Santucci of Opus Consulting to discuss Vicente LLP’s history with cannabis legalization, the recent recommendation by the HHS to reschedule marijuana to a Schedule III drug and what this means for the future of federal drug policy reform. Listen now!

Synthetic Cannabinoids in Minnesota: Are the Rules Different for Cannabis and Hemp?

By Andrea Golan
Dec 19, 2023

In our second blog in a series of Vicente Insights discussing hemp regulation under the new Minnesota Cannabis Law, we break down Minnesota’s regulation of “synthetic cannabinoids” including how they are defined, when they can be used, and whether the rules for synthetic cannabinoids differ for cannabis and hemp.

Join us! Psychedelics Investor Forum in Costa Rica Featuring Shawn Hauser and Sally Kent Peebles

Dec 19, 2023

On Wednesday, January 10, 2024, Vicente LLP partners Shawn Hauser and Sally Kent Peebles will be participating in a psychedelics investor forum in Nosara, Costa Rica! This is a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to exploring the latest national legislation and its pivotal impact on mental health. Register now!

Vicente LLP Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: December 2023

Dec 19, 2023

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: December 2023

Dec 14, 2023

Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #6: November 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Dec 13, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #6 focuses on updates from the recent subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.

A Potential Breakthrough for Psychedelic Treatments: Ninth Circuit Court Ruling on Psilocybin Rescheduling

By Jason Adelstone
Dec 7, 2023

On October 27, 2023, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, in Aggarwal v. DEA, held that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) must reconsider its denial of a petition to transfer psilocybin, the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms” from Schedule I to Schedule II. Read this Insights post for more information about the Ninth Circuit Court’s order to reschedule psilocybin.

Vicente LLP Mid-Atlantic Update: November 2023

Dec 5, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland

SXSW 2024 Will Feature Psychedelics Attorneys Joshua Kappel and Shawn Hauser

Nov 29, 2023

Vicente LLP psychedelics attorneys Joshua Kappel and Shawn Hauser were selected to speak on panels focused on functional alcohol substitutes and psilocybin medicine during the Psychedelics Track at SXSW in March 2024.

Boston Magazine’s Top Lawyers List Includes Five Vicente LLP Attorneys in 2023

Nov 21, 2023

Congratulations to the Vicente LLP attorneys who were recognized as top lawyers by Boston Magazine in their 2023 list. Our attorneys were selected for their exceptional work in Corporate Law and Land Use.

Minnesota Hemp Business Licensing and Endorsements Required From Seed to Sale Under the Adult-Use Cannabis Law

By Andrea Golan
Nov 16, 2023

In this first post in a series of Vicente Insights discussing hemp regulation under the new Minnesota cannabis law, we will dive into the licenses and endorsements required to cultivate, process, manufacture, transport, and sell hemp ingredients and hemp products.

[Webinar] Mississippi Medical Cannabis Update

Nov 16, 2023

Watch this Vicente LLP live session replay regarding Mississippi's medical cannabis market. Panelists will discuss the latest happenings in Mississippi’s cannabis market, business licensing application requirements, operational compliance within a cannabis business, and the future of the state’s growing industry.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #5: October 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Nov 14, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #5 focuses on updates from the October subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.

Vicente LLP Federal and International Cannabis and Psychedelics Law and Policy Update: November 2023

Nov 10, 2023

Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP.

Adam Fine Ranked in Massachusetts Super Lawyers’ 2023 List for Cannabis Law and Business Law

Nov 9, 2023

For the second year in a row, Vicente LLP partner Adam Fine has been recognized by Super Lawyers for his exceptional practice in Massachusetts.

Maryland Cannabis Business License Application Submission Guide

By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 6, 2023

Maryland’s first adult-use licensing round is almost here! Do you have what you need? We’ve prepared a list to help guide you toward submission.The 30-day application period opens next week on November 13, 2023, at midnight ET and closes on December 12, 2023, at 5 p.m. ET.

Top Five Countries to Watch for International Cannabis Reform in 2024

By Jason Adelstone
Nov 6, 2023

While the cannabis industry in the United States awaits a marijuana scheduling decision from the DEA, many countries around the world continue to move forward with liberalizing their cannabis policies as a superior method of promoting the health and welfare of their citizens. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at five countries poised to make waves in the cannabis landscape in 2024, including Germany, Thailand, Colombia, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland.

Vicente LLP Ranked in 2024 Best Law Firms List for Corporate Law, Real Estate, Land Use & Zoning Law, and Government Relations Practice

Nov 3, 2023

We're excited to announce that Vicente LLP was ranked in Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms® 2024 Edition—both nationally and regionally across multiple practice areas!

[Webinar] Update on Testing in Cannabis and Hemp 

Nov 2, 2023

Watch as panelists address the current lab testing and compliance issues in the industry, testing standards across the country, and the importance of reliable testing.

Maryland Cannabis Business Licensing: Upcoming Deadlines for Social Equity Applicants

By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 1, 2023

The clock is ticking—Maryland’s Social Equity Verification Portal will close on Tuesday, November 7.   Have you completed your verification application? We recommend doing so as soon as possible to ensure that the Office of Social Equity has time to review your application and certify your social equity status.  

Vicente LLP Mid-Atlantic Update: October 2023

Nov 1, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland

New Cannabis Regulations in Massachusetts Are Now in Effect: What You Need to Know

By David Ullian
Oct 31, 2023

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s amended regulations make substantial changes to the current regulatory framework related to HCAs, Social Equity businesses, municipal equity, and agent suitability. These changes reveal a clear intent to make real progress towards achieving the goals of creating new opportunities and a level playing field for Social Equity businesses, and continuing to build a successful, equitable cannabis industry in Massachusetts. Read this article for an overview of the key provisions in the amended regulations.

Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala Features Psychedelics Discussion with Joshua Kappel

Oct 26, 2023

Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel will discuss the new age of psychedelics and how natural medicines can help entrepreneurs at the prestigious Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala on November 1.

Vicente LLP Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: October 2023

Oct 26, 2023

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Washington, D.C. Medical Cannabis Update: Expanded Medical Cannabis Access, Social Equity Opportunities and Open Licensing Periods

By David M. Ullian
Oct 26, 2023

Washington, D.C. recently expanded its medical cannabis program to increase medical cannabis access for non-resident patients, update testing lab procedures, and expand social equity applicant criteria. Read this article for a summary of the expansion plus key business licensing application dates.

[Webinar] Identifying International Cannabis Opportunities in Europe

Oct 26, 2023

This recorded session features members of Vicente LLP’s Federal and International Law and Policy practice group and London cannabis attorney Robert Jappie of Fieldfisher sharing insights into what’s happening with cannabis and hemp-derived cannabinoids across the pond and opportunities for US operators and investors.

MJBizCon 2023 Speakers Include Andrew Livingston and Sally Kent Peebles of Vicente LLP

Oct 25, 2023

Andrew Livingston will present on cannabis supply and demand and Sally Kent Peebles will present on leveraging opportunities in new markets at MJBizCon this year. Read on for more information about their panels!

Maryland Releases New Cannabis License Application Information

By Meg Nash
Oct 24, 2023

The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) recently released new information about the upcoming licensing round, including application instructions, an evaluation worksheet, and application templates. MCA also published an FAQ page. Read on for a summary of key information.

Colorado Psychedelics Implementation Update: DOR Natural Medicine Division Listening Sessions - Part 1

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 24, 2023

As part of the pre-rulemaking process, the Colorado Department of Revenue's Natural Medicine Division began holding public “Listening Sessions” with the goal of gathering information from the public at large. The October sessions consisted of five, one-hour, online meetings focused on specific topics announced in advance. Read this article for a summary of the first five sessions.

Minnesota Cannabis Grant Programs Aim to Help Entrepreneurs Succeed and Promote Social Equity

By Jason Tarasek
Oct 23, 2023

The Minnesota legislature has established three grant programs designed to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses and to create a more equitable cannabis industry. Read more about them in this Insights article.

Vicente LLP Partner Jennifer Cabrera Selected to 2023 Super Lawyers New York List

Oct 20, 2023

Vicente LLP partner Jennifer Cabrera was recognized by Super Lawyers for her exceptional legal work in New York! Congratulations Jennifer!

New York Cannabis Business Applications Are Live and the Deadline is Extended: What We’ve Learned

By Bridgette Nikisher
Oct 18, 2023

New York’s adult-use regulations are effective and the first application period for certain adult-use licenses is underway! At the Cannabis Control Board (CCB) meeting on October 17, 2023, CCB announced that they are extending the deadline for applications by two weeks. Read this Insights article for details related to Social and Economic Equity Applicant applications, how many licenses will be awarded, the review and selection process, property control and proximity protection, and true parties of interest disclosures.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #4: September 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 17, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #4 focuses on updates from the September subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.

Oregon and Colorado Psychedelics Panel at Wonderland Features Shawn Hauser

Oct 17, 2023

Watch Vicente LLP partner Shawn Hauser present on Thursday, November 9 during Wonderland Miami! Shawn is slated to discuss the state of the emerging psychedelics industries in Oregon and Colorado. Register now!

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: October 2023

Oct 13, 2023

Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP

Australian Cannabis Policy Webinar Will Feature Cannabis Economist Andrew Livingston

Oct 12, 2023

Andrew Livingston will discuss the relationship between public safety, the amenity of public spaces, and the legalization and regulation of cannabis in Australia during a Penington Institute webinar on October 26.

[Webinar] Michigan Cannabis Market Trends & Economic Forecast

Oct 11, 2023

Watch this live session on Wednesday, October 11 at 1 p.m. ET. The session will feature Vicente LLP’s director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, and the firm’s Michigan practice leader, Travis Copenhaver, as they discuss Michigan cannabis market trends and opportunities that will help your business to better adapt, strategize, and navigate changing market conditions.

Vicente LLP Takes Home Top Law Firm Award at 2023 PBC Conference

Oct 6, 2023

Vicente LLP won the Top Law Firm Award at the 2023 PBC Conference Awards on September 21, 2023. Vicente partner Sahar Ayinehsazian spoke at the conference and accepted the award on behalf of the firm.

Cannabis and Hemp Developments in North Carolina

By David M. Ullian, Gabriel Amatruda
Oct 5, 2023

Public support for medical cannabis in North Carolina is quite strong and despite being one of only a few states that have legalized medical or adult use, cannabis is finally making headway in the Tar Heel State. Read this article to learn about recent cannabis and hemp developments in NC, including legislation and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ vote to legalize adult-use cannabis.

[Webinar] Special Briefing on Cannabis Federal Scheduling Reform

Oct 4, 2023

Watch this special briefing where Vicente LLP leaders share insights on the impacts of the HHS recommendation to reschedule cannabis and outline the road ahead.

Psychedelic Missouri Freedom Conference Will Feature Joshua Kappel Discussing Decriminalizing and Commercializing Psychedelics

Oct 2, 2023

Joshua Kappel is a featured speaker at the Psychedelic Missouri Freedom Conference, which will be held on October 21. His panel discussion, “Decriminalizing & Commercializing Psychedelics,” will also feature Andreas Met of Satya Therapeutics and Saint Louis University adjunct professor Charlotte Jones.

Vicente LLP Attorneys Slated to Discuss Minnesota’s Cannabis Industry During Minnesota CLE Webcast Series

Sep 29, 2023

Join Jason Tarasek, Michelle Bodian and Yolanda Clarke during Minnesota CLE’s webcast series on October 10 and October 17 for insights and updates on Minnesota’s cannabis and hemp industry.

Vicente LLP Mid-Atlantic Update: September 2023

Sep 28, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland

[Vicente LLP Event] Maryland Cannabis Business Licensing Workshop & Networking Event

Sep 22, 2023

Vicente LLP is hosting a can’t-miss event for those interested in entering the Maryland adult-use cannabis market! Please join us in Baltimore on October 16 for an evening of education and networking with industry leaders, business owners and entrepreneurs.

Casey Leaver and Steve Pemberton Slated to Discuss Company Compliance Culture at Cannabis Quality Conference in New Jersey

Sep 21, 2023

Join Casey Leaver and Stephen Pemberton at the Cannabis Quality Conference on October 18! Casey and Steve will discuss creating a culture of compliance to help your cannabis operation thrive.

Mississippi Medical Cannabis Market Update

By Colleen Mitchell, Andrew Livingston
Sep 20, 2023

It has been over a year since Mississippi began accepting applications for medical cannabis business licenses and the market has steadily grown. Now, with the residency requirement gone and the passing of a new bill that made some positive changes to the program, it is an excellent time to enter this budding market. Read this article for market updates, including the number of patients, dispensaries, cultivators and processors, in addition to new opportunities created by House Bill 1158.

[Vicente LLP Event] Minnesota Hemp & Cannabis Seminar

Sep 18, 2023

Join the Vicente LLP team in Minneapolis for another can’t-miss hemp and cannabis legal and business seminar on October 19, 2023. The event will feature Vicente LLP hemp and cannabis business attorneys Michelle Bodian, Travis Copenhaver, Jeremy Shaw and Jason Tarasek, along with special guests Sen. Lindsey Port and cannabis accountant Angela L’Esperance of Ms. Jane Accounting.

[Webinar] Preparing for New York Cannabis Business Licensing

Sep 14, 2023

New York's adult-use cannabis licensing is set to open in the fall, and members of Vicente LLP’s New York team and a special guest from Dutchie provide answers to the “who, what, where, when and how” questions on the minds of prospective Empire State cannabis licensees during this webinar replay.

Vicente LLP’s New York Cannabis Lawyers to Present at the New York Cannabis and Hemp Convention

Sep 12, 2023

Join Michelle Bodian, Elliot Choi and Meg Nash at NECANN New York! Our attorneys will discuss how to submit a successful cannabis license application for the upcoming New York licensing round. Register here!

Cannabis Business Licensing Opportunities in Southern California

By Emily Hackman, Ashley Davies
Sep 12, 2023

Cannabis storefront retail and microbusiness license opportunities in Southern California have largely been few and far between. However, the City of Redondo Beach and the City of Santee are two great opportunities to expand or establish a foothold in the Southern California cannabis retail market. Read this article for a summary of the current status of each jurisdiction's application and licensing process.

Vicente LLP's Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: September 2023

Sep 11, 2023

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Vicente LLP's Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: January 2024

Sep 11, 2023

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Maryland Cannabis Administration Releases Additional Information Related to the Upcoming Social Equity Cannabis Business Licensing Round

By Meg Nash
Sep 8, 2023

The Maryland Cannabis Administration and its Office of Social Equity released information related to the upcoming social equity cannabis business licensing round, including timelines for application release, submission deadline and the number of licenses available per region and county.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #3: August 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Sep 7, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #3 focuses on updates from the August subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board. In addition, the Department of Revenue will hold NMHA listening sessions throughout September.

Maryland Cannabis Administration Releases Social Equity Verification Tool in Preparation for Cannabis Business Licensing

By Yolanda Clarke, Meg Nash
Sep 1, 2023

The Maryland Cannabis Administration and its Office of Social Equity took another step toward the first round of adult-use social equity licensing in the state with the announcement that their social equity verification portal will go live on September 8. This first round of adult-use licensing will be for standard or micro grower, processor, and dispensary license types. Only social equity applicants are eligible to take part in this first round and to qualify, you must first be officially verified as a social equity applicant.

US Officially Recognizes Medical Use and Safety of Cannabis: The Top 6 Things to Know About Schedule III and the Process Ahead

By Shawn Hauser
Aug 31, 2023

The federal government formally acknowledged the medical use and low potential of abuse for cannabis, with the US Department of Health and Human Services recommending that cannabis be rescheduled to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. While placement in Schedule III still criminalizes commercial cannabis activity at the federal level, it is a significant step on the path to ending prohibition. This rescheduling would eliminate the application of 280E tax penalties, reduce the level of criminal liability for cannabis-related activity, reduce barriers to research, legitimize the industry through gaining credibility and engagement by physicians and the medical community, and support a growing industry for the American economy.

Sahar Ayinehsazian to Discuss the Latest About Cannabis Retail in California at Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Aug 29, 2023

Sahar Ayinehsazian is slated to join other cannabis industry professionals to discuss California’s legal cannabis market on September 27 at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago!

PsyCon Will Feature Vicente LLP Attorneys Joshua Kappel and Yolanda Clarke Discussing Colorado Natural Medicine Health Act Updates and Licensing

Aug 29, 2023

What are the latest updates on Natural Medicines in Colorado? What are the opportunities for entering Colorado’s psychedelic ecosystem? Attend Joshua Kappel and Yolanda Clarke’s sessions at PsyCon Denver on September 29 to find out the answers to these questions. Register now!

Sahar Ayinehsazian Will Speak on Cannabis-Related Business Due Diligence for Banking Executives at PBC Conference 2023

Aug 29, 2023

On September 21, Sahar Ayinehsazian will discuss the importance of due diligence in cannabis banking at PBC Conference 2023, the B2B conference for payments, banking and compliance in the cannabis industry. Register now!

Connecticut Business of Cannabis Conference Will Feature Vicente LLP Attorney Michelle Bodian

Aug 28, 2023

Michelle Bodian will take the stage at the Hartford Business Journal’s Business of Cannabis Connecticut Conference on September 21, 2023. She joins a panel of Connecticut cannabis VIPs for the panel “Building an Industry in Connecticut.”

Andrea Golan Slated to Address Emerging Trends in Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Legislation at HIACon 2023

Aug 28, 2023

What’s the latest with the 2023 Farm Bill? Andrea Golan will offer an update on the current legal landscape of intoxicating and synthetic cannabinoids in the US at the 2023 Hemp Industries Association Conference. Register now!

[Webinar] Washington, DC Cannabis Business Licensing Update

Aug 24, 2023

Washington, DC's Medical Cannabis Amendment Act of 2022 overhauls the existing medical cannabis program, significantly expands access for registered patients, and creates a variety of new business opportunities for operators. Watch this session to learn about DC’s new medical cannabis statute and new license opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Navigating Minnesota’s New Rules for Manufacturers and Sellers of Lower Potency Hemp-Derived Edible Products

By Andrea Golan
Aug 23, 2023

Minnesota's new adult-use cannabis law makes some significant changes to the state's existing rules governing the manufacture and sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Read this article for information on some of the most notable changes, including seller registration requirements, prohibited products, and cannabinoid serving limits.

Best Lawyers® Recognizes 18 Attorneys From Vicente LLP for Work in Cannabis Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, and Additional Practice Areas

Aug 17, 2023

Eighteen Vicente LLP attorneys were recognized in the 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. The firm is proud to have several attorneys selected for inclusion in the prestigious lists for multiple years in a row, as well as a growing number of new additions to the lists each year.

Vicente LLP New York Tri-State Update: August 2023

Aug 17, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

[Webinar] Connecticut Cannabis Compliance Essentials for Operators

Aug 17, 2023

So, you received your provisional Connecticut cannabis license or just renewed your final license. Now what? It’s time to get on the path to success as an operational and compliant cannabis operator.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #2: July 2023

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 14, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #2 focuses on updates from the July subcommittee meetings and full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletin #1: Background

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 14, 2023

Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #1 focuses on the Natural Medicine Advisory Board: What is the board, how does the board work, what subcommittees exist, what have they done so far, and what's next?

Colorado Natural Medicine Health Act Tracker Produced by Vicente LLP and Psychedelic Alpha

By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 11, 2023

Vicente LLP is collaborating with Psychedelic Alpha to produce the Colorado Natural Medicine Health Act Tracker, which is dedicated to being a clearinghouse for the implementation of Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act, with a focus on the work of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and its subcommittees.

New Jersey Cannabis Attorneys Jennifer Cabrera and Steve Pemberton Are Slated to Speak at NECANN’s 2023 New Jersey Cannabis Convention

Aug 11, 2023

Vicente attorneys Jennifer Cabrera and Steve Pemberton are slated to speak about cannabis hospitality and entering New Jersey’s cannabis market during NECANN’s New Jersey Cannabis Conference from September 8-9, 2023 in Atlantic City. Read this post for more information.

Help Us Make the SXSW Stage! Vote for ‘Man vs. Nature: The Commercialization of Psilocybin Medicine’ Panel

Aug 10, 2023

SXSW 2024 Panel Picker is open for voting! Vicente LLP partner Shawn Hauser, amongst others, proposed a highly engaging panel titled, “Man vs. Nature: The Commercialization of Psilocybin Medicine,” which focuses on the current state of research in psilocybin. Vote today!

Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Proposes Draft Amended Regulations: What You Need to Know

By David M. Ullian and Jennifer L. Flanagan
Aug 9, 2023

A new law is making significant changes to the cannabis industry in Massachusetts, particularly with respect to Host Community Agreements and municipal equity. Read this article for a high-level summary of the key provisions of the draft, amended regulations related to HCAs, municipal equity, social consumption, and suitability standards for marijuana establishment agents.

SXSW 2024 PanelPicker is Open! Vote for ’The Bar's New Top Shelf: Elevation Over Inebriation’ Panel

Aug 9, 2023

SXSW 2024 Panel Picker is open for voting! Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel, along with other esteemed professionals, proposed a highly engaging panel titled, “The Bar’s New Top Shelf: Elevation Over Inebriation,” which focuses on functional alcohol substitutes such as Kanna, Kava, Psilocybin, Kratom, and other compounds. Vote today!

Adam Fine Joins Panel to Discuss How CPAs Can Leverage Their Relationships with Cannabis Legal Experts at AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference

Aug 3, 2023

Are you an accountant interested in running a cannabis niche practice? Adam Fine will discuss the benefits of creating relationships with other professional service providers, including cannabis attorneys, during the AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on August 16.

Minnesota Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek Selected to 2023 Minnesota Super Lawyers List

Aug 1, 2023

Vicente attorney Jason Tarasek was recently selected to the 2023 Minnesota Super Lawyers list for his work in cannabis law. Congratulations, Jason!

Connect with Vicente LLP at the Maryland Municipal League’s Summer Symposium on Cannabis

Aug 1, 2023

Join Vicente LLP attorneys Meg Nash and Yolanda Clarke in Annapolis during the Maryland Municipal League’s Summer Symposium on Cannabis on August 10, 2023.

Where Does the Texas Hemp Industry Go After the 2023 Legislative Session?

By Katelin Edwards, Andrea Golan
Aug 1, 2023

Between an unfavorable court ruling and an uninspiring 2021 legislative session, not to mention a major drought impacting all Texas crops, things were not looking good for hemp in Texas going into the 2023 legislative session. Then, many of the promising bills introduced in the 2023 legislative session were unsuccessful. Where does the Texas hemp market go from here? Read this article for four predictions from Vicente's hemp team.

Community Engagement Best Practices for Minnesota Cannabis Entrepreneurs

By Colleen Mitchell
Jul 31, 2023

Interested in applying for a Minnesota cannabis license? Now is the time to get involved in the initial rulemaking process, identify where you’d like to operate, and begin engaging with leaders and business owners in those communities.

Andrew Livingston Slated to Discuss Cannabis Market Trends and Opportunities at AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference

Jul 26, 2023

Is now the time to enter the cannabis market? Cannabis economist Andrew Livingston will share data and insights to help answer questions on the mind of every cannabis entrepreneur's clients during the AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on August 16.

Oklahoma Cannabis Operators Should Be Alert of Increased Enforcement and Heightened License Application Scrutiny from OMMA

By Genevieve Meehan, Emily Hackman
Jul 26, 2023

As cannabis markets mature, regulatory agencies typically increase compliance enforcement through inspections and audits. It has become increasingly clear that The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority has shifted toward increased and escalated enforcement and heightened license application scrutiny. Learn more about this shift and review the updated OMMA inspection forms by reading this Insights article.

Colorado Marijuana Rulemaking Is Underway

By Genevieve Meehan
Jul 24, 2023

The 2023 rulemaking process will run through the fall and address a wide range of topics, including marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and testing standards; fee increases; regulatory efficiency; implementation of legislation enacted earlier this year; intoxicating hemp; and hospitality.

Vicente LLP New York Tri-State Update: July 2023

Jul 21, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

[Webinar] Maryland Cannabis Licensing: What We Know, What We’re Waiting For, and How to Get Started Now

Jul 19, 2023

With Maryland’s regulated cannabis industry opening up new opportunities for licensees and ancillary businesses in the coming months, questions remain about the Old Line State’s adult-use cannabis regulations and their impact on licensing, where licensed cannabis businesses can and will be located, MCA’s upcoming license lottery process, and more. Watch this recorded session for a deep dive into what we know, what we’re waiting for, and how to start smart now in Maryland.

Jeremy Shaw Slated to Discuss the Evolving Cannabis Landscape at Worcester Business Journal's The Business of Cannabis Summit

Jul 17, 2023

Jeremy Shaw will participate in Worcester Business Journal’s Cannabis Business Summit on July 20. This panel will discuss how to anticipate and adapt to the rapidly changing market so that your business is ready for anything.

Elliot Choi Joins Asian Cannabis Roundtable to Discuss SAFE Banking in the Cannabis Industry

Jul 13, 2023

Join ACR for a Roundtable Discussion on SAFE banking in the cannabis industry, specifically focusing on the impact on small and minority-owned businesses. The webinar featuring Vicente attorney Elliot Choi will be held on Tuesday, July 25th, from 6:30 - 8 p.m. ET.

City of West Hollywood Community Educational Forum on Psilocybin Features Psychedelics Attorney Joshua Kappel

Jul 12, 2023

Learn about and support psychedelic policy by attending a community educational forum on psilocybin, featuring Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel, at the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on July 25, 2023. The educational forum will explore the full spectrum of psilocybin-related topics, including a discussion of past and current legislation aimed at decriminalizing psilocybin mushrooms and other hallucinogenic substances.

[Webinar] Opportunities in the Functional Mushroom Industry

Jul 12, 2023

Mushrooms are having a moment! Watch this session to learn about current and future business opportunities in the growing world of adaptogenic and functional mushrooms.

Jason Tarasek Joins Rootwurks to Discuss Cannabis Legalization in Minnesota

Jul 11, 2023

What Can Minnesota Expect from Cannabis Legalization? On July 26, 2023, Jason Tarasek of cannabis law firm Vicente LLP and Josh Maslowski of Stigma will discuss the compelling aspects of legalization in Minnesota and what we can expect from the state's future legal retail cannabis market.

Vicente LLP’s Tri-State Team Joins the Bronx Community Foundation for The Official Dispensary Showroom Tour: with a Taste of Long Island!

Jul 11, 2023

Learn directly from the teams who were part of launching many of the first CAURD (Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary) licensed dispensaries in New York State. The Official Dispensary Showroom Tour is coming to Long Island, Syracuse, Mid-Hudson, Queens, and The Bronx throughout Summer and Fall 2023.

Vicente LLP's Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies Update: July 2023

Jul 7, 2023

Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.

Join Sally Kent Peebles at LemonHaze’s Medical Marijuana Treatment Center Florida Applicants Pitch Cocktail Party

Jul 6, 2023

Sally Kent Peebles is slated to speak at LemonHaze’s MMTC Florida Applicants Cocktail Party on July 19. Various Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Center applicants will be in attendance.

Washington, DC Medical Cannabis Expansion and New Licensing Opportunities

By David M. Ullian
Jun 28, 2023

The Medical Cannabis Amendment Act of 2022 is a new law that overhauls Washington, DC’s existing medical cannabis program, significantly expands access for registered patients, and creates a variety of new business opportunities for operators. This article provides a high-level overview of some of the Act’s key provisions and new business opportunities.

Minnesota CLE 2023 Cannabis Law Conference Features Vicente LLP Attorneys

Jun 28, 2023

Vicente attorneys Jason Tarasek, Sahar Ayinehsazian and Yolanda Clarke will discuss what the new cannabis laws mean for the future of Minnesota’s cannabis industry during the 2023 Minnesota Cannabis Law Conference on July 31, 2023

Rhode Island Cannabis Update: Cannabis Commission Confirmed and New Retail Advertising Guidelines Released

By Meg Nash
Jun 28, 2023

Rhode Island moves one step closer to implementing adult-use cannabis with the Senate confirmation of the state's Cannabis Control Commission. This Insight also delves into licensing, social equity applicant criteria, zoning restrictions, and newly released advertising guidelines for hybrid retailers.

[Webinar] Training for Excellence in Cannabis Operations and Compliance

Jun 28, 2023

Watch this Vicente LLP session, where cannabis training and compliance experts from Vicente, Cannabis Trainers and Rootwurks will discuss the gold standards for cannabis employee training and the most common (and costly) compliance pitfalls they’ve seen across the industry.

Minnesota Cannabis Market Projections

By Travis Copenhaver
Jun 22, 2023

While the state of Minnesota's study on the expected size and growth of the state's cannabis industry will not be complete until January 15, 2025, Vicente LLP's Economics & Research Department recently made some general predictions about the market. Read this Insights article to dive into the numbers.

[Webinar] Intoxicating and Synthetic Hemp Regulations: State Legislative Session Updates and Federal Predictions

Jun 15, 2023

Watch this session replay with Vicente LLP's hemp team and regulators from Colorado and Vermont to learn more about state legislative changes and projections for future hemp product regulation at the state and federal levels.

Cassia Furman and Andrea Golan Will Discuss Advertising Regulations for Hemp-Cannabinoid Products During MyLawCLE Webinar

Jun 13, 2023

Vicente attorneys Cassia Furman and Andrea Golan are slated to present “Advertising and Regulation of CBD and Other Hemp-Cannabinoid Products.” The webinar is hosted by myLawCLE and the Federal Bar Association, and will take place on Tuesday, June 20 at 12 p.m. ET.

Vicente LLP Receives Top Ranking in Cannabis Law from Chambers and Partners for the Fifth Year in a Row

Jun 12, 2023

Vicente LLP is honored to announce that the firm was recognized by Chambers and Partners as a top cannabis law practice in the U.S., and five of the firm's attorneys were individually ranked among the nation's top cannabis lawyers. Vicente has received a Nationwide Band 1 ranking from Chambers in all five years since the Cannabis Law section was added in 2019.

Vicente LLP’s Tri-State Team Joins the Bronx Community Foundation for the Official New York Cannabis Dispensary Showroom Tour

Jun 12, 2023

Learn directly from the teams who were part of launching many of the first CAURD (Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary) licensed dispensaries in New York State. The Official Dispensary Showroom Tour is coming to Rochester, Long Island, Syracuse, Mid-Hudson, Queens, and The Bronx throughout Summer and Fall 2023.

New Partner Spotlight: David Ullian

Jun 9, 2023

Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner David Ullian

FL Gorman to Speak About Commercial Real Estate and Cannabis at Lucky Leaf Expo's Inaugural Maryland Conference

Jun 7, 2023

FL Gorman will speak on a panel at Lucky Leaf Expo's Maryland conference on July 22, 2023. The panel will focus on the challenges of securing commercial real estate for cannabis businesses in emerging markets and how to avoid wasting time and money.

Join Vicente LLP at Psychedelic Science 2023 in Denver

Jun 7, 2023

The largest psychedelic gathering in history is coming to Denver June 19-23 and Vicente LLP is ecstatic to sponsor the conference and welcome the global psychedelic community to our hometown. Let’s connect at the conference and the many networking events that week!

Cannabis Microbusiness Licensing Opportunities in Missouri

By Alex Solome, Colleen Mitchell
Jun 6, 2023

The Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation’s microbusiness dispensary application instructions and sample application form are now live! Applications will be accepted from July 27 through August 10. If you’re interested in applying for a cannabis microbusiness license in Missouri, read this article for more details and reach out to our licensing team to get started.

The Six Main Functional Mushroom Types: Opportunities and Ongoing Research

By Charles Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian
Jun 5, 2023

While waiting for the emergence of state-regulated psilocybin markets or federal legalization, entrepreneurs interested in mushrooms have other options to pursue. Read this article to learn more about opportunities in functional mushrooms.

Cannabis Business in Minnesota: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to the New Industry

May 31, 2023

Join us in Minneapolis on June 14 for a can’t-miss cannabis legal and business seminar!

Minnesota Legalizes Cannabis: What Entrepreneurs Need to Know About the New Law

By Krissy Atterholt
May 30, 2023

Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis bill was signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz on May 30, making The North Star State the 23rd to legalize cannabis. Read this insights article to learn more about the law, including who will oversee cannabis regulation, available license types, and licensing considerations.

Legal Guide to Decriminalized Natural Medicine in Colorado

May 29, 2023

Colorado is the first state to decriminalize natural psychedelics for personal and communal use. This guide contains information on personal use, civil protections, and Colorado's regulated natural medicine access program. Natural psychedelics remain illegal under federal law. Please be conscientious and know the laws.

Leading Minnesota Cannabis Attorney Jason Tarasek Will Join Vicente LLP on June 1, 2023

May 25, 2023

Vicente LLP is pleased to announce that leading Minnesota cannabis attorney Jason Tarasek will join Vicente LLP as counsel on June 1, 2023. His Minnesota Cannabis Law practice will become Vicente’s new Minneapolis office and continue to service its new and current clients as the firm expands operations across Minnesota and the surrounding region.

Vicente LLP Hemp Update: May 2023

May 25, 2023

Sign up for Hemp and Cannabinoid Industry updates from Vicente LLP

[Webinar] Massachusetts Cannabis Market Trends & Economic Forecast

May 24, 2023

Watch Vicente's director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, partner Adam Fine, and cannabis industry CPA/CFE Mitzi Keating discuss the latest Massachusetts market trends and opportunities in this on-demand webinar.

Upcoming Cannabis Business Licensing Opportunities Across the U.S.

By Jerrico Perez
May 22, 2023

Opportunities for growth across the nation are currently abundant for cannabis businesses, and our experienced team is here to help you navigate these increasingly complex and competitive licensing processes. With more winning merit-based applications than any other law firm in the country, our team’s work ethic, dedication, and experience will help elevate your application above the competition and set your business up for long-term success.

[Webinar] New York’s Revised Cannabis Regulations: What you need to know now to plan ahead and structure deals

May 17, 2023

Watch this Vicente LLP session where members of our New York team dive into the significant changes from the first draft of New York's cannabis regulations, how the new regulations will impact capital raises and M&A, and more!

Key Provisions of Delaware’s Recently Passed Legislation to Legalize and Regulate Cannabis

By Sam Kovach-Orr, Sahar Ayinehsazian
May 16, 2023

Delaware recently became the 22nd state to legalize cannabis with the passage of House Bill 1 and House Bill 2. Read this Insights article for key provisions of the laws, including licensing details and program rollout timeline.

Brandon Kurtzman to Share New York Cannabis Licensing & Legal Insights During CWCB Expo Business Bootcamp Masterclass

May 16, 2023

Are you interested in getting into New York’s cannabis industry? If so, then you need to attend the Master Class: Adult Use Retail Dispensary Business Bootcamp featuring Vicente partner Brandon Kurtzman on June 3, 2023!

Michelle Bodian Will Present a Connecticut Cannabis Regulatory and Licensing Update at the 2023 Connecticut Cannabis & Hemp Convention

May 15, 2023

Have you heard the latest about Connecticut’s cannabis regulations and licensing process? Attend the 2023 Connecticut Cannabis & Hemp Convention on May 20 to hear Michelle Bodian discuss just that!

Can New York’s Illegal Cannabis Dispensaries Be Stopped? Governor Hochul Proposes a Solution

By Michelle Bodian, Elliot Choi
May 12, 2023

New York City has seen a proliferation of illicit and unregulated cannabis stores since the Marihuana Regulation & Taxation Act was signed into law on March 31, 2021. To date, enforcement efforts have been limited; however, that could all change with the passage of the Governor’s 2024 budget. Read this article to learn key aspects of the budget provisions concerning the illicit cannabis market.

Revised New York Adult-Use Cannabis Regulations: What You Need to Know

By Michelle Bodian, Elliot Choi, Brandon Kurtzman, Charles Alovisetti
May 11, 2023

On May 11, 2023, New York’s Cannabis Control Board voted to approve the revised adult-use cannabis regulations. The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has indicated adult-use cannabis applications will open up in the fall, meaning these revised regulations will function as our roadmap. This article outlines key changes in the revised regulations.

DEA Proposes to Reschedule Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids

By Michelle Bodian, Shawn Hauser, Shane Pennington
May 11, 2023

At a DEA supply chain conference last week, Terrance Boos, Section Chief, Drug and Chemical Evaluation Section, stated that the DEA will be releasing a rule to reschedule certain hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Buying a Ketamine Clinic: Why, How, and Risks to Understand

May 11, 2023

With ketamine being the only approved psychedelic drug for medical use, ketamine clinics offer a unique opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs looking to enter the expanding market of innovative mental health therapies. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the growing demand for ketamine clinics and the unique regulatory considerations involved in transactions involving these businesses.

Yolanda Clarke Slated to Present 'Oregon Psilocybin Licensing 101' at Psycon Psychedelics Conference in Oregon

May 10, 2023

Vicente psychedelics and emerging therapies attorney Yolanda Clarke will share Oregon psilocybin licensing tips and insights at Psycon Oregon on May 19.

New Partner Spotlight: Jeremy Shaw

May 10, 2023

Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Jeremy Shaw

Key Aspects of New York's Cannabis Law and Draft Regulations

By Charles Alovisetti
May 8, 2023

New York's Cannabis Control Board meets this week and a revised set of draft regulations, reflecting comments from the initial period, is expected to be released before the meeting. Attend our webinar on May 17 for a deep dive into the revised regulations.

‘State of the Florida Cannabis Industry Today and Tomorrow’ Panel Will Feature Sally Kent Peebles

May 4, 2023

Join Sally Kent Peebles on May 18 for a discussion on the past, present, and future of Florida’s medical cannabis program. Register now!

Will Arkansas' Bold New Hemp Law Stand? A Closer Look at the Controversial Trigger Provision

By Andrea Golan, Ashley Davies
May 4, 2023

Arkansas Act 629 prohibits the production and sale of intoxicating substances derived from hemp. The act also amends the definition of "industrial hemp" and includes a controversial "trigger provision." Learn more about it in this Insights article.

[Webinar] Maryland Cannabis Legalization: Implementation & Opportunities

May 4, 2023

Watch this session from Vicente LLP and Medical Cannabis Law Group for a look into upcoming cannabis opportunities in the exciting new Maryland market.

Overview of Kentucky's Medical Marijuana Law

By Sally Kent Peebles
May 3, 2023

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshears signed SB47 into law, making the Bluegrass State the 38th state to take this important step. Read this insights article for an overview of the law, including license types and qualifying medical conditions for patients.

What You Need to Know About SB23-290, Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act Implementation Bill

By Genevieve Meehan and Sara Simons
May 3, 2023

Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), made its way through the Colorado Legislature and now awaits the governor's signature. Although the bill started off with a couple of policy positions that were antithetical to the voter-initiated act, after a series of amendments and a lot of work by Colorado activists and lawyers, it seems clear SB23-290 builds off the intent of the NMHA to create a natural psychedelic ecosystem in Colorado based in equity and safety. Read this Vicente Insights post for key aspects of the bill.

Colorado Psychedelics Update: State House of Representatives Passes Natural Medicine Health Act Implementation Bill SB23-290 with Amendments

By Joshua Kappel
May 1, 2023

Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), made its way through the Colorado House and has now passed with amendments that have generally brought this bill even closer to the original intent of Prop 122! Read this Vicente Insights post for the latest updates and next steps for the bill.    

Andrew Livingston and Marijuana Policy Project Join Rootwurks to Discuss the 10 States in 3 Years Campaign

Apr 27, 2023

Can 10 More States Legalize Cannabis in the Next 3 Years? Join Andrew Livingston and MPP for a Rootwurks webinar on May 17 to find out which states are most likely to legalize in the coming years and why certain campaigns are more successful than others.

Sally Kent Peebles Will Share Florida Cannabis Licensing Insights at Cannalaw Summit

Apr 27, 2023

Register for the Cannalaw Summit to learn from Sally Kent Peebles as she shares her knowledge in the panel “Cannabis Regulations: An Overview of the State Regulations and Requirements for Licensing.”

[Webinar] Asset-Light Strategies to Boost Cannabis Business Growth

Apr 27, 2023

Attend this Vicente LLP session to learn about how asset-light business models can help expand your business and bring products to market faster and with less capital.

INCBA Hemp Symposium Welcomes Shawn Hauser to Discuss the 2023 Farm Bill

Apr 26, 2023

Join Shawn Hauser at the INCBA Hemp Symposium on April 28 to listen to her panel, “How the 2023 Farm Bill Can Reshape Hemp and Regulated Cannabinoid Policy.” Register now!

New Partner Spotlight: Jennifer Cabrera

Apr 26, 2023

Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Jennifer Cabrera

Key Takeaways from Maryland’s Adult-Use Cannabis Implementation Bills Awaiting Governor Moore's Signature

By Sahar Ayinehsazian, Sam Kovach-Orr
Apr 26, 2023

Maryland's adult-use cannabis implementation bills are currently awaiting Governor Wes Moore's signature after the House Economic Matters Committee and the Senate Finance Committee collaborated to create alignment between the two pending bills, HB556 and SB516. Read this article for key takeaways, including who will oversee cannabis regulation, revised definitions and limits, and important changes to licensing.

Colorado Psychedelics Update: Natural Medicine Health Act Implementation Bill SB23-290 Engrossed, Reengrossed, and Heading to the House

By Joshua Kappel, Juliana Todeschi
Apr 25, 2023

Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), has gone through the Colorado Senate Finance and Appropriations Committees and several amendments have been made. The reengrossed version of the now 91-page bill heads to the state House with a new sponsor, Representative Judy Amabile. Read this Vicente Insights post for the latest updates and next steps for the bill.    

Colorado Psychedelics Update: Natural Medicine Health Act Implementation Bill SB23-290 Amended During Public Hearing

By Joshua Kappel
Apr 21, 2023

SB23-290, the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA) implementation bill, had a hearing on April 20 in Colorado’s Senate Finance Committee. Amendments made during the hearing were a significant step in the right direction. Read this Vicente Insights post for our summary of the hearing and next steps for the bill.    

[Webinar] Compliance Best Practices for Michigan Cannabis Operators

Apr 19, 2023

Watch this Vicente LLP session for insights on current CRA enforcement trends and best practices for running a compliant cannabis business in Michigan.

Colorado Psychedelics Update: Natural Medicine Regulation and Legalization Bill Introduced in Colorado Legislature

By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska
Apr 19, 2023

SB23-290 was introduced in the Colorado Legislature to amend and implement Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act that was passed by Colorado voters in November. There will be a public hearing on this bill tomorrow, April 20. If passed, SB23-290 would completely replace the NMHA.

[Webinar] Equitable Access & Psychedelics

Apr 13, 2023

Making psychedelic-assisted therapy and training opportunities accessible to historically and systematically oppressed populations is essential to creating a more equitable healthcare model. But how can this be achieved? Watch this webinar for a discussion on equity and psychedelics with professionals from Alchemy Community Therapy Center.

Charles Alovisetti Presenting on Cannabis Law at Stockton University’s Annual Cannabis Convening

Apr 12, 2023

The Cannabis & Hemp Research Initiative at Stockton University is hosting its 3rd Annual Cannabis Curriculum Convening on April 27-28. Register for this virtual session to hear Vicente partner Charles Alovisetti discuss cannabis law.

Cannabis License Types and Timelines in Maryland Adult-Use Regulation Bill Awaiting Governor's Signature

By Jen Flanagan, Meg Nash, Sam Kovach-Orr
Apr 12, 2023

Roughly two months after the introduction of cross-filed bills relating to regulating adult-use cannabis in Maryland, HB556 and SB516, the General Assembly passed a final version of the bill and sent it to Gov. Wes Moore for his signature. Read this article for highlighted proposed provisions affecting current and future licenses, including license types and timelines.

What Minnesota Cannabis Licensees with Retail Operations Can Expect from Local Governments: License Limits, Zoning, Fees, and Compliance Checks

By Krissy Atterholt
Apr 11, 2023

Read this article for a breakdown of some of the powers that local governments in Minnesota would have over cannabis retail operations should the adult-use legalization bill Senate File 73 pass.

New Partner Spotlight: Meg Nash

Apr 11, 2023

Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Meg Nash

Vicente LLP Partners Slated to Speak at 2023 NORML Cannabis Law and Business Seminar

Apr 10, 2023

Attend the NORML Denver Legal Seminar from June 7-9 to hear Vicente partners Charles Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Shawn Hauser, and Brian Vicente discuss the latest cannabis industry legal and business insights.

Revisiting SOPs in Massachusetts Cannabis: A Cautionary Tale

By Casey Leaver
Apr 10, 2023

The Massachusetts cannabis employee data breach made public last month by the Cannabis Control Commission, combined with recent announcements about the Commission’s “secret shopper” program and an increase in unannounced inspections at licensed facilities, presents a trifecta of reminders for marijuana establishments to revisit their standard operating policies and procedures (SOPs).

Sahar Ayinehsazian and Jen Flanagan Discuss Cannabis Banking on The Cannabis Business Minds Podcast

Apr 6, 2023

In this episode of Cannabis Minds, Jen Flanagan interviews her colleague Sahar Ayinehsazian who gives valuable advice for cannabis operators and applicants seeking banking services.

Jen Flanagan and Brian Vicente Discuss the Future of the Cannabis Industry on Cannabis Business Minds Podcast

Apr 6, 2023

Brian Vicente shares cannabis industry insights on The Cannabis Minds Show’s podcast series co-hosted by Vicente LLP’s Jen Flanagan.

Casey Leaver Offers Cannabis Operator Compliance Insights on The Cannabis Business Minds Show

Apr 5, 2023

The Cannabis Business Minds Show recently featured Jen Flanagan in a four-part podcast series. Episode one focuses on compliance tips for cannabis operators from Casey Leaver. Listen now!

Vicente LLP New York Tri-State Update: April 2023

Apr 5, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Trailblazers NYC 2023 Will Feature Jennifer Cabrera and Joshua Kappel

Apr 4, 2023

Vicente attorneys Joshua Kappel and Jennifer Cabrera are participating in Trailblazers’ highly anticipated second annual event in New York City on April 24-25!

Tips for Cannabis Researchers Who Want to Study Dispensary Marijuana Now Without Violating Federal Law

By Shane Pennington
Apr 4, 2023

Cannabis researchers can study the dispensary strains and products people are actually using around the country right now... without violating federal law… and without Congress lifting a finger. Read this article for two simple tricks to do so.

Jerrico Perez Will Discuss the Current Legal Cannabis Landscape at PLI’s Upcoming Cannabis Legal and Business Fundamentals Event

Mar 30, 2023

Vicente partner Jerrico Perez is headed to San Francisco to speak at PLI’s Cannabis Legal and Business Fundamentals event on April 13.

Rise in Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency Enforcement Actions Signals Importance of Operational Compliance

By Krissy Atterholt
Mar 30, 2023

Regulatory enforcement against Michigan cannabis licensees has increased significantly since mid-2022. Read this article for a breakdown of the number of actions, types of penalties, and categories of non-compliance resulting in enforcement.

New Partner Spotlight: Michelle Bodian

Mar 29, 2023

Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Michelle Bodian

Becca Rutenberg Receives Legal Award at Green Market Report’s 2023 Women’s Leadership Awards

Mar 24, 2023

Congratulations to Becca Rutenberg for being a legal award winner at Green Market Report’s 2023 Women’s Summit!

Minnesota Cannabis Legalization Bill Amended to Lessen Potential Impact on Breweries Manufacturing THC Beverages

By Krissy Atterholt, Jason Tarasek
Mar 22, 2023

Microbreweries and cideries have become Minnesota THC beverage market leaders in the wake of 2022's hemp-derived THC product bill. The current cannabis legalization bill would have made things difficult for these producers, but it was recently amended so that lower-potency hemp edibles manufacturers could produce lower-potency hemp edibles at the same facility where food (such as beer or cider) is manufactured.

[Webinar] How to Run a Compliant Cannabis Dispensary in New Jersey

Mar 22, 2023

So, you received your New Jersey cannabis business license. Now what? It’s time to get on the path to success as an operational and compliant cannabis dispensary. Watch this session from Vicente LLP for a regulatory update and compliance tips to help you thrive in this highly complex regulatory environment.

Forming Psychedelic Companies: 10 Lessons from the Cannabis Industry

By Charles Alovisetti
Mar 22, 2023

A new industry is emerging in the United States, and entrepreneurs in the psychedelics space must make critical decisions at the onset of new ventures regarding how to set up and structure their new businesses. Luckily, we have access to another industry with a complex legal framework and a patchwork of different state laws: cannabis. And after forming hundreds of cannabis companies with clients over the past decade, Vicente LLP has lessons to be shared.

Vicente LLP is Headed to Miami for 2023 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Mar 20, 2023

Vicente LLP cannabis attorneys are speaking and attending the 2023 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference. Join us April 11-12 in Miami, Florida!

Maryland Cannabis Reform: Amendments to House Bill 556 and Projected Impacts on Licensing Conversion and Future Licensing Rounds

By Meg Nash, Sam Kovach-Orr
Mar 16, 2023

Proposed legislation that would regulate the adult-use cannabis market in Maryland was recently amended. This article provides an overview of key provisions of the amended HB 556 that will impact both existing medical licensees and future applicants intending to pursue licenses in 2023.

Michelle Bodian Will Discuss Connecticut Cannabis Licensing and Regulatory Updates at Xpocanna Cannabis Convention

Mar 15, 2023

Are you ready to jump into the Connecticut cannabis market? Attend this Xpocanna session with Vicente partner Michelle Bodian on March 25 for reflections on the Nutmeg State’s 2022 licensing lottery process, guidance for applying in 2023, and insight into what’s might be coming during this year from the legislature, Dept of Consumer Protection, and the Social Equity Council.

The Duality of Cannabis Regulation According to the International Narcotics Control Board: A Response to the Report of the INCB for 2022

By Jason Adelstone
Mar 15, 2023

In its 2022 report, the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) argues that legalizing the non-medical and non-scientific use of cannabis has failed to achieve the benefits to society that were intended through such legalization. In its attempt to deliver evidence of this failure, INCB instead provides ample evidence to the contrary—that legalization and regulation work. Read this insight for Vicente LLP’s response to the annual report of the INCB.

[Webinar] Restructuring Options in Cannabis: Out-of-Court Workouts

Mar 15, 2023

Cannabis businesses facing insolvency can't access federal bankruptcy courts, but they do have restructuring options. One of those options is an out-of-court workout between lenders and borrowers. Watch this Vicente LLP session to learn the practical issues around out-of-court workouts and cannabis companies.

Shane Pennington to Deliver Spotlight Presentation on Impact Litigation at the INCBA Litigation Symposium

Mar 10, 2023

Hear Shane Pennington discuss the latest developments on cannabis law litigation at the INCBA Litigation Symposium on March 20. Register now!

Travis Copenhaver Will Share Michigan Cannabis Business Insights in Rootwurks Webinar

Mar 9, 2023

Join Vicente partner Travis Copenhaver and Michigan cannabis dispensary owner Mario Porter during a Rootwurks webinar on March 15 to learn the latest compliance and regulatory tips that come with running a cannabis company in Michigan.

Jennifer Cabrera Will Discuss New York’s Cannabis Market at Somos New York Conference

Mar 9, 2023

Vicente partner Jennifer Cabrera will participate in a cannabis legislative workshop sponsored by Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes during the Somos New York 2023 Conference in Albany.

[Webinar] New York Tri-state Cannabis Transactions: M&A, Financings, and New Licenses

Mar 9, 2023

Watch this session to learn how cannabis regulations impact M&A transactions and financings in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.

Medical Cannabis Legalization Bills Advance in North Carolina and South Carolina

By David M. Ullian
Mar 7, 2023

Medical cannabis legalization bills are advancing quickly through the North Carolina and South Carolina legislatures, lending much optimism to advocates, patients and prospective entrepreneurs that these bills will be enacted into law in the coming months.

Jennifer Cabrera Slated to Discuss New Jersey Cannabis in National Hispanic Cannabis Council Webinar

Mar 6, 2023

Watch NHCC's "Current State of Cannabis in New Jersey" webinar on March 7 featuring Vicente partner Jennifer Cabrera and other cannabis industry professionals.

Functional Mushrooms: The Difference Between Regulation as a Food, Food Additive, or Dietary Supplement

By Charles Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian
Mar 3, 2023

Given the wide variety of available functional/adaptogenic mushroom product forms, producers and consumers should be aware of the significant differences in regulations for food, food additives, and dietary supplements.

Vicente LLP Takes the Stage at NECANN Cannabis Convention in Boston

Mar 2, 2023

Register to hear Jennifer Flanagan, David Ullian, Meg Nash, Sam Kovach-Orr, and Steve Pemberton discuss Massachusetts hiring plans, business opportunities, and cannabis delivery at NECANN!

Brian Vicente Joins Marijuana Policy Project’s Board of Directors

Mar 1, 2023

Congratulations, Brian Vicente: MPP’s Newest Board Member.

A Wake-up Call from Down Under: Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration Reschedules Psilocybin and MDMA

By Shane Pennington
Mar 1, 2023

How TGA's rescheduling of psilocybin and MDMA shines a bright light on DEA delinquency

NHCC Session on Florida Cannabis Licensing Features Sally Peebles and Jerrico Perez

Feb 27, 2023

Don’t miss Sally Peebles and Jerrico Perez speaking at the National Hispanic Cannabis Council’s Florida spotlight live session on February 28!

Cannabis Crossing State Lines: California Dept. of Cannabis Control Pushes for Interstate Commerce

By Cassia Furman, Jason Adelstone
Feb 24, 2023

A bill passed in 2022 authorized California to enter into agreements with neighboring states allowing for interstate transfers between cannabis licensees, so long as the cannabis products don’t pass through a non-legal state. Could this be implemented? What are the risks?

Vicente LLP and Grasslands Invite You to An Evening of Connection with Cannabis and Psychedelic Professionals During SXSW in Austin

Feb 23, 2023

Calling all cannabis and psychedelic industry professionals! RSVP to attend our private networking event and fundraiser during SXSW in Austin, co-hosted with Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency.

Firm Update: Introducing Vicente Sederberg's New Name, Logo, and 2023 Partner Class

Feb 22, 2023

It's official: Vicente Sederberg LLP is now Vicente LLP. Take a look at our new logo and get to know the firm's largest-ever new partner class!

[Webinar] Restructuring Options in Cannabis: Receiverships

Feb 16, 2023

Cannabis companies facing insolvency must use state receiverships or out-of-court workouts to restructure an insolvent business. But what does that mean, and what is the right choice for your business? Watch our live session on the practical issues around the receivership of cannabis companies.

Sahar Ayinehsazian Teams Up with Green Check Verified to Offer Legal and Financial Insight into Starting a Successful Cannabis Business

Feb 15, 2023

Lawyers, Accountants & Bankers… Oh My! Starting your own cannabis business can be a handful. Luckily, Sahar Ayinehsazian will be joining Green Check Verified on February 22 to discuss the basics of setting up your cannabis operation for success.

Psychedelic Policy Reform in Michigan: A Brief History

By Krissy Atterholt
Feb 14, 2023

Michigan leads the Midwest in affording its communities local protection for psychedelic-based activities. This article gives a breakdown of notable moments in Michigan's psychedelic legislative history.

CBD Products Liability Lawsuits Could Be Revived After FDA Declines to Regulate Cannabidiol

By Catie Wightman
Feb 13, 2023

In recent years, several CBD companies faced product liability lawsuits brought by consumers. Many of these cases were dismissed without prejudice or stayed until the FDA takes action to regulate CBD products. Now that the FDA said it will not take action to regulate CBD, could these cases be revived?

Explore the Legal Landscape for Microdosing Psychedelics with Josh Kappel on the Third Wave Podcast

Feb 9, 2023

What is microdosing and what does the path to legalizing responsible psychedelic use look like? Get the low-down from the Third Wave Podcast featuring Josh Kappel, Alli Schaper and Marie Mbouni, M.D.

Adam Fine to Speak About Massachusetts Cannabis Industry Challenges and Opportunities in Upcoming Rootwurks Webinar

Feb 9, 2023

What’s happening in Massachusetts? Watch this February 22 Rootwurks webinar to hear a discussion on the current state of affairs for cannabis in Massachusetts, the challenges cannabis companies face, how the state is handling social equity, and the compliance and regulatory issues at play in the state.

[Webinar] FDA Punts CBD Regulation: What Does that Mean for Hemp Businesses?

Feb 9, 2023

The FDA decided not to regulate CBD, denied three citizen petitions requesting CBD rulemaking or other FDA action, and announced it is now up to Congress to step in. Watch this webinar and learn what this means for your hemp-derived cannabinoids business.

Recommending CBD and Hemp Products for Pets: Legal Considerations for Veterinarians

By Catie Wightman
Feb 9, 2023

With recent announcements from the FDA pushing CBD and hemp-derived products further into a legal gray area, can veterinarians recommend or sell these products for pets?

Maryland Cannabis Reform: Conversion to Adult Use for Existing Medical Licensees and New Licensing Opportunities

By Meg Nash and Sam Kovach-Orr
Feb 7, 2023

Just a few months after voters legalized cannabis, Maryland legislators introduced proposed legislation that would create a framework for the adult-use cannabis market.

Guidelines for the Personal Use of Psychedelics Under Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act of 2022

By Yolanda Clarke and Jaime Greenwood
Feb 3, 2023

Colorado's Natural Medicine Health Act provides a path for responsible access to psychedelic natural medicines. If you're interested in the personal use of natural medicines in Colorado, read this article to find out what is and is not permitted.

Michelle Bodian Examines Connecticut’s Adult-use Cannabis Licensing Program in INCBA Session

Feb 2, 2023

Michelle Bodian will discuss Connecticut’s adult-use cannabis licensing program, lottery system, and social equity goals in an INCBA webinar on February 8!

[Webinar] Checking in on New York's Journey to a Legal Cannabis Market

Feb 2, 2023

New York’s first adult-use dispensary is open… so, what’s next? It’s public comment time! Sharpen your pencils and watch this recorded session for a discussion about New York’s proposed adult use regulations and common issues impacting current and future cannabis businesses

An Economic Impact and Tax Analysis of Oklahoma State Question 820

By Andrew Livingston
Feb 2, 2023

If voters approve SQ 820 on March 7, Oklahoma would see $821 million in marijuana tax revenue in the first five years following implementation.

Mississippi Cannabis Update: Medical Sales Launch, Legalization Bills Proposed

By Sally Kent Peebles
Feb 1, 2023

Nearly one year after Gov. Reeves signed the Mississippi Medical cannabis Act (MMCA), medical marijuana sales launched in the Magnolia State. License applications are still being accepted.

Sweet Carolinas: Medical Cannabis Legalization Bills Introduced in North Carolina and South Carolina

By David M. Ullian
Feb 1, 2023

After failing to pass medical cannabis bills in 2022, legislators in North Carolina and South Carolina are preparing to consider bills that would legalize and regulate the production and use of medical cannabis in their respective states.

Southeast U.S. Regional Cannabis Update: January 2023

By Sally Kent Peebles, David Ullian
Jan 31, 2023

Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy news and events related to states in the Southeastern U.S. region.

5 Things to Know About New California Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Regulations, Inhalable Products, and Recycling Claims in 2023 and Beyond

By Andrea Golan
Jan 25, 2023

At the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, several notable changes in California cannabis law took effect. In this article, we compiled five key regulatory changes impacting cannabis packaging and labeling, recyclability claims, and inhalable cannabis products.

New Jersey Moves One Step Closer to Cannabis Consumption Areas: CRC Publishes Proposed Regulations

By Stephen Pemberton, Jennifer Cabrera
Jan 25, 2023

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission recently published proposed regulations governing the operation of cannabis consumption areas and opened up the public comment period. Read our summary to get the low-down.

Regulating Intoxicating Hemp Products: Recent Reports and Recommendations from Vermont, Maryland, Virginia and Oregon

By Sam Kovach-Orr
Jan 23, 2023

Vermont, Maryland, Virginia, Oregon, and Colorado recently issued reports containing policy recommendations relating to intoxicating hemp-derived products.

‘Cannabis Seeds Are Federally Legal: What Now?’ Webinar from Cannabis Business Times Will Feature Shane Pennington

Jan 19, 2023

Join Shane Pennington on February 1 for a Cannabis Business Times webinar discussing the opportunities and challenges surrounding the federally legal cannabis seeds market.

10 Key Takeaways from the Colorado Intoxicating Hemp Task Force Final Report

By Catie Wightman
Jan 17, 2023

The SB 22-205 Intoxicating Hemp Task Force's final report makes legislative and rule recommendations concerning the regulation of intoxicating and synthetic hemp products in Colorado. We compiled 10 key takeaways for hemp industry stakeholders.

[Webinar] Psychedelic Opportunities in Oregon and Colorado

Jan 12, 2023

As states like Oregon and Colorado develop regulated pathways for people to get involved in the regulated psychedelics industry, possibilities—and questions—are increasing: What are the opportunities now, what’s next, and where? Get answers by watching this recorded session.

New Illinois Cannabis Dispensary Licensing Round Presents Additional Opportunities for Cannabusinesses

By Yolanda Clarke, Alex Solome
Jan 11, 2023

Illinois will hold another cannabis dispensary license round in early 2023 with a lower submission fee and a major focus on social equity requirements. Read this article to learn about the requirements and application deadlines. If you're interested in applying, VS's licensing team is ready to help you secure your future success.

Connecticut Adult Use Sales Open: How Much Will Customers Pay in Taxes?

By Michelle Bodian
Jan 10, 2023

Adult-use cannabis sales started in Connecticut on January 10, 2023. While this historic moment has been in decades in the making, the tax collector still wants its piece of the pie. Read this for a quick recap of the applicable taxes and registration process for Connecticut cannabis retailers, hybrid retailers, and micro-cultivators, and a look at how much their customers will pay in taxes.

Proposition 122 Co-author Joshua Kappel Slated to Participate in Chacruna’s Community Forum on The Future of Colorado Psychedelics

Jan 10, 2023

Certain psychedelics were decriminalized in Colorado, now what? Join Chacruna’s Community Forum on January 18 for an in-depth discussion about the Natural Medicine Health Act.

Phil Silverman Will Present on Cannabis and Insolvency During New England Bankruptcy Law Conference

Jan 10, 2023

Phil Silverman will discuss legal options for cannabis businesses encountering insolvency during MCLE’s 24th Bankruptcy Law Conference on January 12. Register to join in person or online.

High-THC Hemp Edibles Are Dangerous and Potentially Deadly: A Cautionary Tale in Minnesota

By Andrea Golan
Jan 6, 2023

Minnesota hemp companies are being sued by the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy for selling high-THC hemp-derived edibles that allegedly contained 100 milligrams of hemp-derived THC per gummy bear and were intentionally marketed in a manner that is appealing to children. What standards may lower consumer safety risks for these products?

Sally Kent Peebles Shares Insight into Florida's Medical Marijuana Licensing Process on "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross"

Jan 6, 2023

Florida state health regulators are looking to issue up to 22 more medical marijuana licenses to operators around the state. Sally Peebles dives into what this means for Medical Marijuana Treatment Center applicants in the Sunshine State.

Colorado Prop 122 Co-author Josh Kappel Joins Psychedelic Passage Podcast to Address Protections and Regulations Under the Natural Medicine Health Act

Jan 6, 2023

"Can I start selling mushrooms in Colorado now?" Joshua Kappel answers your questions about Proposition 122 on the Psychedelics Passage podcast. Listen here!

Vicente Sederberg Attorneys Recognized As Top Marijuana Lawyers in 5280 Magazine’s 2023 List

Jan 5, 2023

Congratulations to VS's cannabis attorneys who landed on 5280 Magazine's Top Lawyers 2023 list!

Recommending Cannabis for Pets: Legal Considerations for Veterinarians

By Catie Wightman
Jan 3, 2023

In this two-part VS Insights series, we discuss the potential legal implications for veterinarians to consider regarding cannabis and hemp products. This first article focuses on cannabis products, while part two focuses on hemp and hemp-derived products.

Brian Vicente Joining Rootwurks Webinar to Recap 2022 Cannabis Developments and Give Predictions for 2023

Dec 27, 2022

Ten years after Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, where do things stand? Find out on January 31, 2023.

Financing Cannabis-Related Real Estate CLE Features Charles Alovisetti

Dec 27, 2022

In a CLE on January 12, 2023, Charles Alovisetti will offer advice on the legal and practical issues borrowers and lenders need to consider when documenting and funding a loan transaction secured by cannabis-related real estate

Firm Update: Sederberg Transitioning Roles to Focus More Time on Policy and Advocacy

Dec 23, 2022

Christian Sederberg is leaving his role as partner to focus more of his time on policy and advocacy. He will remain at the firm as special counsel while also continuing his government affairs and policy work with VS Strategies. In light of the transition, VS will shorten its name to Vicente LLP in February.

VS Participating in Upcoming Drug Conviction Record Sealing Clinic Hosted by The Color of Cannabis and NAACP Denver

Dec 23, 2022

On January 7, 2023, the VS team will provide legal services at a drug conviction record sealing clinic in Denver, Colorado.

Marc Ross Discusses the Importance of ESG Management for Cannabis Companies on Sustainable Minds Podcast

Dec 20, 2022

Marc Ross recently spoke on the Sustainable Minds: Exploring ESG and Corporate Brand podcast about the importance of ESG management at cannabis companies, his experience in the cannabis industry and more!

Florida Rule Sets the Stage for Upcoming Medical Marijuana Treatment Center License Application Round

By Sally Kent Peebles
Dec 19, 2022

The wait is finally over! Florida Department of Health Emergency Rule 64ER22-9 was released today, providing insight into the much-anticipated Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Center licensing round.

New York's Draft Cannabis Regulations: 10 Key Aspects that Will Impact the Market

By Michelle Bodian, Sam Kovach-Orr, Bridgette Nikisher
Dec 16, 2022

Draft regulations to implement New York's Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act have been published. While the draft regulations are over 280 pages, we summarized ten key items that will most directly impact hopeful and existing New York cannabis businesses.

[Webinar] Intoxicating Hemp Regulations: Where We Are and What's to Come

Dec 15, 2022

Watch as Vicente Sederberg LLP and EARTH Law LLC discuss the regulatory approaches for intoxicating hemp in Colorado, Oregon and California, and our projections for the future

Vicente Sederberg Earns a Spot in MG Magazine’s Top Cannabis Employers of 2022 List

Dec 9, 2022

VS was recognized by MG Magazine as one of “America’s Top Cannabis Employers” for the fourth year in a row!

Jennifer Cabrera Joins National Hispanic Cannabis Council for New York Cannabis Regulations Roundtable

Dec 8, 2022

Join Vicente Sederberg’s Jennifer Cabrera and a great lineup of panelists for NHCC's latest Legal Committee Roundtable discussion on cannabis in New York on December 14.

[Webinar] New Cannabis Opportunities in the Upper Midwest: Post Election

Dec 8, 2022

Watch this session on-demand for a discussion on the cannabis landscape and emerging opportunities in Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Habeeb Syed to Discuss Legal Considerations in Cryptocurrency at 2022 IDEAS Global A.I. Conference

Dec 7, 2022

Join Habeeb Syed on December 16 for a panel titled, "Legal Considerations for Launching Your Blockchain, NFT, or Crypto Project," at the IDEAS Global A.I. Conference.

VS to Provide Compliance Support at New York’s First Adult-Use Cannabis Dispensary Experience

Dec 5, 2022

Let’s connect! Vicente Sederberg’s New York compliance team will be onsite at the Bronx Dispensary Showroom hosted by The Bronx Community Foundation from Dec. 9 – 11, 2022 to lend expertise and education to potential cannabis entrepreneurs.

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Now Allows Pesticide Use on Marijuana Plants

By Michelle Bodian, Casey Leaver
Dec 2, 2022

In an important policy change affecting Massachusetts marijuana operators, MDAR now allows the use of pesticides on marijuana plants, provided conditions are met.

Recent FDA Enforcement Letters Signal Increased FDA Scrutiny of Hemp Products

By Catie Wightman, Michelle Bodian
Nov 30, 2022

On November 21, 2022, the FDA issued five warning letters to companies selling CBD, Delta-8, and other hemp products for humans and pets.

Boston Magazine's 2022 'Top Lawyers' List Includes Eight Vicente Sederberg Attorneys

Nov 23, 2022

We're proud to announce that eight VS attorneys were included in Boston Magazine's 2022 'Top Lawyers' list! Congratulations to Brandon Kurtzman, Phil Silverman, Charles Alovisetti, David Ullian, Adam Fine, Jeremy Shaw, Meg Nash, and Michelle Bodian!

FL Gorman Receives New York Commercial Estate Affiliate Award

Nov 16, 2022

Congratulations go out to VS partner FL Gorman, who was awarded “Affiliate of the Year” by the New York State Commercial Association of Realtors Rochester Chapter!

Oregon Psilocybin Services Releases New Proposed Rules and Public Comment Period

By Yolanda Clarke, Jamie Greenwood
Nov 16, 2022

In another exciting step towards implementing psilocybin services, the Oregon Psilocybin Services Section issued updated proposed rules under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act this month, making significant changes to the previous iteration. Make your voices heard! The public comment period is open through November 21, 2022.

Ocean State Cannabis Update: Municipal Approvals for Adult Use Retail in Rhode Island Provide Ample Opportunity for Interested Applicants

By Jen Flanagan, Sam Kovach-Orr, Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 16, 2022

Widespread support for allowing cannabis retail sales in Rhode Island municipalities significantly expands opportunities for potential applicants seeking to obtain one of the 24 cannabis retail licenses expected to be available in 2023. Read this article for insight into what to expect next and how to prepare.

Tax Credits Available for Investing in Connecticut Cannabis Companies

By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 15, 2022

Who wants free money for investing in a Connecticut cannabis company? CT's Cannabis Angel Tax Credit Program provides a way for investors to receive a 25% tax credit against the state income tax when they invest at least $25k in an approved social equity cannabis licensee.

[Webinar] Cannabis & Psychedelics Reform: Post-election 2022 & Executive Scheduling

Nov 10, 2022

VS unpacks the cannabis- and psychedelics-related results of the 2022 election and discusses the implications of President Biden’s recent Executive Scheduling reform.

President Biden's Cannabis Scheduling Directive: Part 3

By Shane Pennington
Nov 9, 2022

What outcomes are possible from the impending administrative process to reconsider cannabis’s schedule I status? What are the implications of those various possible outcomes? And how should we all proceed in light of it all?

[Webinar] California Cannabis Regulatory Update

Nov 9, 2022

Watch this recorded session to learn about California's latest cannabis rule changes and how to comply.

Vicente Sederberg LLP Ranked in 2023 U.S. News & World Report 'Best Law Firms' for Corporate Law, Land Use & Zoning Law

Nov 8, 2022

We're excited to announce that Vicente Sederberg LLP was ranked in U.S. News – Best Lawyers®  "Best Law Firms" 2023 Edition! VS is ranked nationally for Land Use & Zoning Law and regionally for Corporate Law in Colorado and Land Use & Zoning Law in Massachusetts.

Celebrating 10 Years of Cannabis Legalization in Colorado

Nov 7, 2022

Amendment 64 made history in 2012. Leaders of Vicente Sederberg and its consulting affiliate, VS Strategies, played key roles in drafting, passing, and implementing the historic ballot initiative.

Christian Sederberg Talks Cannabis Legalization with The Green Peak Podcast

Nov 4, 2022

Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by The Green Peak podcast about federal cannabis legalization, the midterm elections and more. Listen now!

Colorado Votes on Psilocybin: Josh Kappel Joins Higher Practice Podcast to Discuss Prop. 122

Nov 4, 2022

Josh Kappel recently discussed everything related to Proposition 122: The Natural Medicine Health Act with Higher Practice Podcast. Listen now!

Legends in Cannabis Policy Reform Vicente Sederberg Join Headset’s High Rise Podcast

Nov 4, 2022

Brian Vicente and Mason Tvert speak on their journey and history related to cannabis legalization on the High-Rise podcast. Listen now!

How to Run a Cannabis Dispensary in New York: Guidance for New York Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries

By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher, Sam Kovach-Orr, Meg Nash, Elliot Choi
Nov 3, 2022

Notable provisions from the New York Office of Cannabis Management's recently published "Guidance for Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries."

Sally Peebles and Andrew Livingston Will Discuss Cannabis Legalization in the South in Upcoming Rootwurks Webinar

Nov 3, 2022

Is the Deep South Next for Cannabis Legalization? Sally Peebles and Andrew Livingston address this question on an upcoming Rootwurks webinar on November 22!

The Evolution of the Cannabis Industry in Massachusetts

By David Ullian, Jennifer Flanagan
Nov 2, 2022

This Bloomberg Law article by David Ullian and Jen Flanagan explores the evolution of the Massachusetts adult-use cannabis industry and how lawmakers, regulators, and industry advocates contributed to key recent legislative and regulatory developments.

[Webinar] Cannabis & Psychedelics On the Ballot

Nov 1, 2022

The November 2022 ballot has those interested in cannabis and psychedelic policy reform on their toes. From supporting adult-use cannabis initiatives in Arkansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Maryland, to potential psychedelic reform in Colorado, there is plenty of excitement!

Guide for Shipping Hemp and Hemp-Derived CBD Products

By Michelle Bodian, Catie Wightman
Nov 1, 2022

Planning to ship hemp or hemp-derived CBD products? Read this first.

Will the 2023 Farm Bill Address Hemp Industry Pain Points and Public Safety Concerns?

By Andrea Golan
Oct 31, 2022

As Congress considers the next Farm Bill, hemp stakeholders and lawmakers are strongly advocating for reforms that will benefit the industry and consumers.

How to Fix Non-compliant Michigan Cannabis Product Packaging

By Krissy Atterholt
Oct 28, 2022

Complying with Michigan's marijuana packaging and labeling laws can be challenging to navigate if you don't pay close attention to the rules. If a product's packaging is not compliant, some potential remedies are available to bring the product back into compliance.

Michigan Cannabis Packaging and Labeling 101

By Krissy Atterholt
Oct 28, 2022

Cannabis packaging and labeling requirements vary across markets and product types, so it’s critical that your packaging and labeling are compliant with state-specific regulations. Read this article to know what information needs to be on marijuana product packaging in Michigan.

Shane Pennington Featured in New York Cannabis Licensing Panel at the 2022 NYS Cannabis Expo

Oct 26, 2022

On October 30, VS counsel Shane Pennington will be joined by other cannabis attorneys and consultants on a panel about New York’s cannabis licensing process.

President Biden's Cannabis Scheduling Directive: Part 2

By Shane Pennington
Oct 21, 2022

To appreciate the gravity of the President’s scheduling directive and what could happen next, you need to understand (1) how the administrative process the President has set in motion will actually work and (2) how the agencies in charge have used it to affirm and reaffirm cannabis’s schedule I1 status repeatedly throughout the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970’s (“CSA”) history. Those topics are covered in this article. 

President Biden's Cannabis Scheduling Directive Is a Game Changer

By Shane Pennington
Oct 21, 2022

President Biden’s scheduling directive is enormously important. In fact, if permitted to run its course, it could revolutionize federal drug control law to a far greater degree than any of the many pending cannabis legalization bills.

VS Staff Presenting at 2022 MJBizCon Cannabis Business Conference

Oct 20, 2022

Join VS at MJBizCon from November 15-18!

Is Minnesota’s New Hemp-derived THC Edible Law Discriminatory?

By Shawn Hauser, Ariane Beckman
Oct 19, 2022

Intoxicating hemp-derived edibles are permitted in Minnesota. Is this discriminatory against medical cannabis operators? One Minnesota medical cannabis operator filed a complaint against the MN Department of Health for that very reason.

[Webinar] New York Cannabis: By the Numbers