Archive

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

[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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Natural Medicine Health Act of 2022: A Measure to Access Psychedelic Medicine in Colorado

By Colleen Mitchell, Yolanda Clarke
Oct 10, 2022

Prop 122 would create a regulated system for adults aged 21 and older to access natural psychedelic medicine, such as psilocybin, in a supervised setting to treat various mental health conditions. It would also allow for the cultivation, possession, personal use, and gifting of psychedelic medicine for adults aged 21 and older. Read this for an overview of the proposition’s key components.

[Webinar] Massachusetts Cannabis Regulatory Update

Aug 19, 2022

Massachusetts Legislature recently voted to pass marijuana reform legislation that will impact the cannabis industry in significant ways, particularly with respect to social equity. Watch this for an overview of the new law and insights into how it might impact your business.

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 Years of Legal Cannabis in Massachusetts

By David M. Ullian, Gabriel Amatruda
Nov 8, 2021

Five years in, the Commonwealth has seen the most significant growth in both the number of cannabis businesses and sales, and the market continues to expand and provide new opportunities.

[Webinar] Cannabis Real Estate Considerations

Oct 12, 2021

Watch this recorded session where members of VS’s real estate practice discuss cannabis real estate issues, including lease considerations, financing, and local jurisdiction laws that may affect your business. 

Charles Alovisetti to Present Cannabis Real Estate Financing CLE

Jul 1, 2021

The CLE, titled "Financing Cannabis-Related Real Estate: Structuring Options, Enforcement Issues, Regulatory Hurdles" will analyze legal and practical issues borrowers and lenders need to consider when documenting and funding a loan transaction secured by cannabis-related real estate.

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.

Commercial Leases Involving Cannabis Businesses

By Ben Leonard and Brett Williams
Mar 9, 2021

This article published by the Colorado Bar Association addresses issues unique to cannabis-related business lease transactions and offers suggestions for structuring such leases to maintain regulatory compliance.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card via Telemedicine

By Charles Alovisetti, Brandon Kurtzman
Apr 16, 2020

Since COVID-19 has limited patient ability to get in-person consultations and examinations with health care providers, how does one go about obtaining a medical marijuana patient certification?

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?

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).

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.