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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

[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.

[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.

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).

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!

[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.

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?

[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.

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.

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.

[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.

VS Team Joining Cannabis Quality Conference to Discuss Cannabis Compliance Culture and New Jersey Cannabis Regulations

Sep 28, 2022

Casey Leaver will provide helpful tips for New Jersey cannabis businesses on a panel titled, “Compliance is Key: Best Practices for Your New Jersey Cannabis Business” at the Cannabis Quality Conference on October 18.

[Webinar] OSHA Compliance in the Cannabis Industry

Sep 15, 2022

Watch this VS session to learn more about OSHA rules and how they apply to cannabis operations.

[Webinar] New York CAURD Cannabis Business Licensing Boot Camp

Aug 25, 2022

Watch these two sessions where our New York team dives into what you need to know to prepare for the upcoming New York CAURD licensing round.

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.

VS Thought Leaders to Speak at 2022 New Jersey Cannabis Convention

Aug 15, 2022

Jennifer Cabrera, Casey Leaver, Adam Fine and Steve Pemberton are scheduled to speak at New Jersey NECANN in September!

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.

What Will Adult-Use Cannabis Products Look Like In New York? Draft Regulations Approved for Packaging, Labeling, Marketing and Advertising

By Brandon Kurtzman, Michelle Bodian, Casey Leaver
Jun 2, 2022

The NY Cannabis Control Board voted to approve draft regulations for Adult-Use Packaging and Labeling and Marketing and Advertising. Read our overview and take this opportunity to submit your public comments.

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.

[Webinar] Achieving Compliance: Cannabis Facility EHS Compliance Audits

Feb 4, 2022

Watch this session to help prepare your facility and team for environmental, health and safety compliance inspections.

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.

VS Team Slated to Speak on Three Panels at NECANN Boston's 6th Annual New England Cannabis Convention

Sep 2, 2021

Don't miss these ESG, hemp, and compliance-focused panels with the Vicente Sederberg team at NECANN Boston cannabis conference on September 10-11, 2021.

'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.

[Webinar] Preparing Your Massachusetts Cannabis Business for Inspections

May 6, 2021

Learn best practices for onsite cannabis business compliance by watching this Massachusetts-focused session.

[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.

Casey Leaver Discusses Cannabis Compliance on The Green Rush Live Talk Show

Apr 26, 2021

VS's director of regulatory compliance discusses Massachusetts cannabis business compliance on a recent episode of Pro Cannabis Media's Green Rush Live talk show.

[Webinar] Common Massachusetts Cannabis Compliance Pitfalls

Apr 22, 2021

Watch to learn about the common roadblocks found on the path to cannabis business compliance.

VS Kicks Off Spring 2021 With 12 Attorney and Staff Promotions

Apr 2, 2021

VS is proud to announce that 12 members of the Vicente Sederberg LLP team have been promoted to elevated roles within the firm! Notably, 11 of the 12 promoted are women.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

See You in Boston for CannaVest and NCIA's Northeast Cannabis Business Conference!

Feb 13, 2020

Don't miss the sessions featuring Brian Vicente, Charles Alovisetti, Ilya Ross, Jennifer Cabrera, Casey Leaver and Meg Nash. Also, be sure to meet up with VS during the event and at our pre-conference networking party!

[Webinar] How to Avoid Costly Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Compliance Mistakes

Jan 22, 2020

Learn cannabis packaging and labeling best practices for Massachusetts marijuana dispensaries during this webinar on February 12, 2020.

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.

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!

New Massachusetts Medical and Adult Use Marijuana Regulations

By David Ullian, Senior Associate Attorney; Meg Nash, Associate Attorney; Casey Leaver, Compliance Manager
Nov 1, 2019

With the release of the new marijuana regulations in Massachusetts, our attorneys created a list of some of the important amended licensing and operational topics, effective Friday, November 1, 2019.

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.