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.
Archive
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.
[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.
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.
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.
[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.
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.
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?
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.
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
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.
[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.
Charles Alovisetti and FL Gorman to Present ‘Cannabis and Insolvency: Debtor Creditor Rights & Remedies Under State and Federal Law’ on NYSBA Program
Oct 5, 2022
VS partners Charles Alovisetti and FL Gorman will discuss debtor-creditor rights pertaining to cannabis at NYSBA’s virtual CRE program on October 6
Raising Private Capital in the Cannabis Industry
By Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Y. Choi, and Sahar Ayinehsazian
Sep 29, 2022
Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Y. Choi, and Sahar Ayinehsazian write for the Bloomberg Law, reflecting on the challenges and journey of raising private capital in the cannabis industry
Banking Compliance in the Cannabis Industry NHCC Legal Committee Roundtable features Jerrico Perez and Sahar Ayinehsazian
Sep 21, 2022
VS partners Sahar Ayinehsazian and Jerrico Perez will be on a LIVE cannabis banking compliance NHCC Legal Committee seminar on September 28!
California Expands Proposition 65 Warning Language for Exposure to Cannabis Smoke and Delta-9 THC
By Andrea Golan
Aug 22, 2022
California OEHHA adopted new regulations which include new non-mandatory Proposition 65 warning language for products that can expose consumers to cannabis smoke or delta-9-THC.
Best Lawyers® Recognizes 14 Attorneys From Vicente Sederberg LLP for Work in Cannabis Law, Corporate Law, and Additional Practice Areas
Aug 19, 2022
VS is pleased to announce that 14 attorneys from national cannabis law firm Vicente Sederberg LLP (VS) were recognized this week by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession.
Sahar Ayinehsazian scheduled to join the 2022 PBC Conference for a Cannabis Banking Panel
Jul 29, 2022
Sahar Ayinehsazian will be speaking at the 2022 PBC Conference on September 8, 2022 to discuss financial investing in the cannabis business space
Gov. Newsom’s Budget Trailer Bill Makes Significant Reforms to California Cannabis Laws, Including Elimination of the Cannabis Cultivation Tax
By Andrea Golan
Jul 11, 2022
California cannabis cultivation tax was eliminated, along with additional significant reforms to Golden State cannabis laws. Read this article for noteworthy changes from Gov. Newsom's recently-signed budget trailer bill.
Vicente Sederberg Receives Top Ranking from Chambers and Partners for Fourth Straight Year
Jul 6, 2022
VS is excited to announce that the prestigious international legal directory Chambers & Partners awarded VS with the 'Cannabis Law Firm of the Year' award once again, extended VS a Band 1 ranking for the fourth straight year, and recognized five VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.
California Publishes IHEO and Registration Applications for Hemp Product Manufacturers
By Andrea Golan
Jul 6, 2022
CDPH published Industrial Hemp Enrollment and Oversight Authorization and registration for each hemp product type.
California AB-45 Update! CDPH Publishes Proposed Emergency Regulations and FAQ Update for Hemp Manufacturers
By Andrea Golan
May 6, 2022
CDPH published proposed emergency regulations detailing the registration requirements and annual fees for manufacturers of hemp extract and hemp products. CDPH is accepting public comments through May 31, 2022.
Cassia Furman Slated to Present at PLI's Cannabis Business Fundamentals 2022 Event
Apr 8, 2022
Cassia will join the panel "The Current Legal Cannabis Landscape: An Overview and Comparative Study" on April 12 at 9:15 a.m.
Genevieve Meehan to Moderate Cannabis Packaging Regulations Session at CannPack 2022
Apr 8, 2022
Don't miss the panel next week at the Cannabis Packaging Conference (CannPack) in Anaheim, California.
California Department of Cannabis Control Releases New Proposed Regulations Today
By Andrea Golan
Mar 4, 2022
DCC unveiled its proposed changes to the cannabis regulations in a public meeting on March 3, 2022. The proposed rules are expected to be published today. VS will analyze the full text once the proposed regulations are released—so stay tuned for further updates.
Hemp States to Watch in 2022: California
By David Kramer
Feb 7, 2022
California is hoping that this will be the year that its hemp industry emerges from the shadows and takes its place among the nation's hemp leaders. Read this article for an outline of what hemp operators should expect from the CDPH and California's hemp program in the coming months.
5 Resolutions for Your California Cannabis Business
By Genevieve Meehan, Emily Hackman, Andrea Golan, Amanda Kilroe
Jan 14, 2022
Our team compiled a list of five resolutions to ensure your California cannabis business is focused on operational compliance for years to come.
Join VS at NCIA's Cannabis Business Summit and CannaVest West Investor Forum
Nov 19, 2021
VS attorneys Charlie Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian, and Marc Ross are slated to present at the event in San Francisco, December 16-17, 2021. Be our guest! Use discount code SBrody100 for a complimentary pass to the forum and expo.
Charles Alovisetti and Amanda Kilroe Interviewed for Columbia Law Alumni Cannabis Article
Oct 11, 2021
The spread of legalization means a growing practice area for law firms. Two VS Columbia Law alumni were interviewed in this article.
Cassia Furman to Join LACBA to Review New California Dept. of Cannabis Control Regulations
Oct 11, 2021
VS partner Cassia Furman will join the LA County Bar Association on October 14, 2021 to review the adopted rules and critically engage with the new regulatory landscape.
California Department of Cannabis Control Files Emergency Rules
By Cassia Furman, Andrea Golan, Genevieve Meehan
Oct 7, 2021
DCC filed emergency rules for cannabis operators. Read this VS Insight for the need-to-know changes and information on submitting a public comment.
California Now Permits the Manufacture and Retail Sale of Hemp-Derived Products — Including CBD
By Andrea Golan, David Kramer
Oct 6, 2021
California AB-45 was signed into law by Governor Newsom, finally putting the California Department of Public Health’s infamous July 2018 FAQ in the rearview mirror—meaning foods, beverages, dietary supplements, pet products, and cosmetics containing CBD can be sold under California state law!
VS is Headed to Las Vegas for the Biggest Cannabis Event of the Year — MJBizCon!
Oct 5, 2021
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!
The End of an Era: California Cannabis Provisional Licensing, a New State Regime, and CEQA
By Emily Hackman
Sep 9, 2021
In the first post of a three-part series focused on California cannabis, we will highlight the impact of the 2021 Budget Trailer Bill and the upcoming end of provisional licensing on California cannabis operators, as well as strategies to reduce delays in new license issuance and annual license transitions.
Andrew Livingston Discusses Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act on The Green Rush Live
Aug 18, 2021
VS director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, joined The Green Rush Live to discuss the Federal CAO Act and more.
'Planted' With Sara Payan Cannabis Podcast Features Jeffrey Welsh in Episode 33
Aug 2, 2021
VS partner Jeffrey Welsh recently sat down with host Sara Payan for a conversation about cannabis policy across the U.S., the intersection of entertainment and cannabis, and his music.
California Trailer Bill Update: Impact on Cannabis Businesses
Jul 22, 2021
Gov. Newsom signed the Cannabis Trailer Bill on July 12, creating the Department of Cannabis Control. Read this for an overview of the most significant provisions of the trailer bill impacting the cannabis industry.
Vicente Sederberg Once Again Ranked Top Cannabis Law Firm by Chambers and Partners
Jun 8, 2021
The prestigious international legal directory awarded VS with the 2021 'Cannabis Law - Law Firm of the Year' award, once again extended VS a Band 1 ranking, and recognized two more VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.
A Closer Look at Colorado COVID-19 Relief Programs
By Corey Cox, Caitlin Wightman
May 24, 2021
The Colorado government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
[Webinar] East Coast vs. West Coast Cannabis Licensing
May 5, 2021
Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.
What is a Cannabis REIT?
By Charles Alovisetti, Cassia Furman
Apr 23, 2021
To many in the cannabis industry, REIT is not a common acronym. Yet, as cannabis businesses seek ways to raise funds, REITs are coming up in more and more conversations.
Coronavirus and Cannabis: Monitoring the Impact
Mar 29, 2021
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring local, state, and federal responses to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how they may impact cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers.
Proposed Changes to Prop 65 ‘Short-Form’ Warning Option: What Cannabis and Hemp Operators Need to Know
By Andrea Golan
Mar 17, 2021
On January 8, 2021, OEHHA proposed significant changes to its Prop 65 short form warning requirements. Public comments on the proposed changes can be submitted through March 29, 2021.
What Efforts Are Underway to Include Cannabis Businesses in COVID-19 Relief Packages?
By Andrea A. Golan, Michelle Bodian
Jan 28, 2021
Cannabis businesses are not eligible for relief under any of the federal COVID-19 aid packages, but members of Congress and industry groups are making significant efforts to include cannabis businesses in federal aid.
Seven Regulatory-related Factors for Marijuana Companies to Consider in a Debt Transaction
By Charles Alovisetti
Jan 25, 2021
Like anything in the cannabis industry, getting a debt deal done requires navigating unique regulatory challenges. Here are seven regulatory considerations that cannabis borrowers and lenders should keep in mind when pursuing a debt transaction.
To Be Blunt Podcast for Cannabis Marketers Interviews Jeffrey Welsh on the State of California Cannabis
Dec 30, 2020
VS partner Jeffrey Welsh discussed the state of cannabis in California with To Be Blunt: The Podcast for Cannabis Marketers.
California Cannabis Update: December 2020
Dec 23, 2020
Updates on proposed reforms, 2021 cannabis and hemp bills, new metrc restrictions, and branded merchandise guidance.
Jeffrey Welsh Featured on University of Hartford 'On the Air' Alumni Podcast
Dec 16, 2020
VS partner Jeffrey Welsh discusses his path from professional saxophonist to cannabis lawyer.
Ten Events That Shaped the California Cannabis Industry
By Christina Sava
Dec 11, 2020
A brief history of cannabis regulation in The Golden State over the last decade.
Navigating The California Cannabis Marketplace with Jeffrey Welsh on Cannabis Radio's Blunt Business Podcast
Dec 7, 2020
In this interview, Jeffrey discusses the California cannabis industry, including the role of entertainers and celebrities in cannabis.
California Court Rules BCC Exceeded Authority by Allowing Advertising Near Highways
By Kelsey Middleton
Dec 2, 2020
A recent ruling determined that the Bureau of Cannabis Control exceeded its rulemaking authority by allowing any advertising to be seen on interstate highways and state highways crossing the California border.
Celebrating 10 Years at the Leading Edge of Cannabis Law
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 1, 2020
For our 10th anniversary, we take a look back at VS's history of leadership in cannabis law, the marijuana and hemp industries, and drug policy reform.
California BCC Amends Regulations Regarding Owner Conviction History
By Christina Sava, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 24, 2020
California Bureau of Cannabis Control issued proposed amendments in response to AB 2138 that would remove licensure barriers for Californians with past criminal convictions.
Where Did Cannabis Ballot Measures Win in California on Election Day 2020?
By Andrea Golan, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 18, 2020
On Election Day 2020, Californians voted on a remarkable number of cannabis-related ballot measures—39 to be exact. Of those, only six were rejected by voters.
Lit & Lucid Podcast: Creating a Future in Cannabis with Jeffrey Welsh
Nov 13, 2020
VS partner Jeffrey Welsh was recently a guest on the Lit & Lucid podcast. Listen here!
Jeffrey Welsh Discusses Cannabis Business Issues with Thinking Outside the Bud
Nov 2, 2020
Jeffrey Welsh recently chatted with host Bruce Eckfeldt about his work in cannabis and entertainment law, as well as cannabis branding and more.
California Proposition 65 Warning Requirements Effective January 3, 2021
By Andrea Golan
Oct 1, 2020
If you sell products to California consumers that contain delta-9 THC or that can expose individuals to cannabis smoke, those products require a Proposition 65 warning.
Raising Private Capital in the Cannabis Industry
By Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Choi, Sahar Ayinehsazian
Sep 18, 2020
Raising private capital continues to be a challenge for the nascent cannabis industry, but there are proactive steps companies can take to maximize the chance of a successful raise.
Leasing Due Diligence Checklist for California Cannabis Businesses
By Christina Sava
Sep 10, 2020
Attention cannabis business owners! Don't forget to do your due diligence before leasing a space for your operations.
Sahar Ayinehsazian to Discuss Cannabis Banking at DRI Virtual Seminar
Sep 3, 2020
Sahar will present "Curbing Cannabis Cash" at DRI's Cannabis Law Virtual Seminar on September 17, 2020.
Andrea Golan to Present Hemp and CBD MCLE for Alameda County Bar Association
Sep 3, 2020
Andrea will present "What Attorneys Should Know About the Legal Status of Hemp and CBD Products in California and Beyond" on September 15, 2020.
California Cannabis Business Preparedness Resources for Wildfires, Power Outages and Remote Audits
By Genevieve Meehan, Christina Sava
Aug 28, 2020
Helpful resources for California cannabis businesses regarding wildfires, power outages, and remote agency audits due to COVID-19.
Coronavirus and Cannabis: California Regulatory Updates
By Andrea, Golan, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Tim Long, Christina Sava, Kelsey Middleton
Aug 27, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in California.
[Webinar] How Can Cannabis Businesses Maximize Tax Savings During Times of Uncertainty?
Aug 13, 2020
This session explores the complexity of mergers and acquisitions and how to optimize taxes to free cash flow for your cannabis business.
Sahar Ayinehsazian Talks Cannabis Banking on Hashtag Finance Podcast with Barrington Miller
Jul 9, 2020
VS attorney Sahar Ayinehsazian discusses cannabis industry banking and the many reasons why there is a demand for cannabis legal advice during the COVID-19 pandemic on CSE's Hashtag Finance podcast.
[Webinar] California Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Compliance
Jul 1, 2020
Learn best practices for California cannabis packaging and labeling, common mistakes to avoid, tips for new product launches, and much more from members of VS's licensing and compliance teams.
Jeffrey Welsh Talks Entertainment and Cannabis on Let's Be Blunt with Montel
Jun 25, 2020
VS partner Jeffrey Welsh talks about normalizing cannabis, social equity in the cannabis industry, CBD, and the effects of COVID-19 in this interview with Montel Williams.
Preparing for the Rising Demand for Due Diligence in Cannabis Transactions
By Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Choi, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Corey Cox
May 5, 2020
The continuing growth of the cannabis and hemp industries has given rise to the need for specifically tailored due diligence.
A Closer Look at Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Programs
By Meg Nash, David Gately
Apr 30, 2020
The Massachusetts government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Can Cannabis Businesses Defer Employment Taxes Due to the Coronavirus?
By Andrea A. Golan
Apr 24, 2020
While cannabis businesses are not currently eligible for many federal relief programs established in response to COVID-19, they may be eligible for this form of federal relief.
Vicente Sederberg Ranked Top Cannabis Law Firm by Chambers and Partners
Apr 23, 2020
The prestigious international legal directory once again gave VS a Nationwide Band 1 ranking, and this time around it also individually ranked three of the firm's partners.
A Closer Look at California COVID-19 Relief Programs
By Andrea A. Golan and Kelsey Middleton
Apr 22, 2020
Coronavirus and Cannabis: Hemp Industry Updates
Apr 17, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on hemp businesses, service providers, and consumers.
Exploring Alternatives to Bankruptcy for Cannabis Businesses
By Charles Alovisetti, Phil Silverman, Jason Adelstone
Apr 17, 2020
Bankruptcy law provides advantages for financially distressed companies to restructure debt while continuing to operate. Without access to U.S. Bankruptcy Code protections, marijuana companies must turn to out-of-court restructurings and state law insolvency proceedings.
Prop 65 Warning Requirements for Cannabis, THC and CBD
By Andrea A. Golan
Apr 13, 2020
In early 2020, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment added Δ9 THC and marijuana smoke to the Proposition 65 list of chemicals known as reproductive toxins. What does this mean for cannabis businesses?
[Webinar] Coronavirus and Cannabis: Coast-to-Coast Regulatory Update
Mar 27, 2020
Watch the replay of this timely discussion on coronavirus (COVID-19) regulatory updates affecting the cannabis industry.
Responding to COVID-19: Vicente Sederberg LLP Is Here to Help
Mar 16, 2020
VS is open for business and communicating with regulators to help answer your questions.
[Webinar Replay] Taxation in the Cannabis Industry
Mar 6, 2020
Learn about cannabis industry best practices for indirect taxes and 280E by watching this webinar replay with tax firm Ryan LLC and attorney Jordan Wellington.
California and the Gig Economy: The Fight Over AB-5
By David Kramer, Senior Associate
Mar 3, 2020
California employers beware: as of January 1, 2020, it is increasingly likely that any person who performs services for your company will be classified as an employee. The reason for this seismic shift is Assembly Bill 5 (AB-5).
VS Attorneys Discuss the Cannabis Industry with Business of Cannabis
Jan 22, 2020
VS attorneys Charles Alovisetti and Sahar Ayinehsazian sat down in Business of Cannabis's Canada's Scene Booth at MJBizCon 2019 to discuss the state of the cannabis industry.
[Webinar] Best Practices for Minimizing Tax Liabilities in the Cannabis Industry
Dec 13, 2019
Join VS and the tax experts at Ryan LLC for a live discussion on cannabis industry taxation, including 280E and best practices for indirect tax issues in the cannabis industry.
Hope for Hemp Banking: Federal Guidance Clarifies and Eases Reporting Requirements
By Sahar Ayinehsazian, Associate Attorney
Dec 12, 2019
On December 3, 2019, a group of federal financial regulators took an important step to enable hemp operators to access banking services by publishing hemp banking guidance.
California Provides Tax Relief for Cannabis Businesses
By Tim Long, Counsel
Dec 9, 2019
With the passing of Assembly Bill 37, legal cannabis businesses can now take advantage of more state tax deductions in California.
VS Expands California Operations with Addition of Frontera Law Group Founders
Dec 4, 2019
Vicente Sederberg is thrilled to announce that leading California cannabis business attorneys Luke K. Stanton and Jeffrey D. Welsh have joined the firm as partners!
On-Demand Webinar: Investing in the Cannabis & Hemp Industries
Oct 29, 2019
Watch Vicente Sederberg LLP attorney Sahar Ayinehsazian and HUB International Insurance Services in this on-demand webinar about investments in the cannabis industry.
Blue Sky Laws and the Cannabis Industry
By Charles S. Alovisetti, Partner
Oct 7, 2019
In addition to federal securities laws, each state and territory has its own securities laws, often referred to as blue sky laws. Cannabis company compliance with these rules may be more important due to heightened regulatory scrutiny.
Can Hemp Companies Declare Bankruptcy?
By Charles S. Alovisetti, Partner; Phil Silverman, Counsel; Jason Adelstone, Law Clerk
Sep 27, 2019
One of the many issues arising out of the tension between state and federal law in the cannabis industry is whether cannabis companies can access the protections of federal bankruptcy law.
Sahar Ayinehsazian Chats with WeedWeek About the Great Cannabis Banking Thaw
Aug 28, 2019
WeedWeek hosts Alex Halperin and Donnell Alexander recently invited VS attorney Sahar Ayinehsazian to discuss cannabis banking on their weekly podcast.
What’s Happening in the World of California Hemp?
By David Kramer, Associate Attorney
Jun 21, 2019
A number of hemp bills are passing through the California legislature. VS Attorney David Kramer dives deeper into AB-228 and SB-153.