Archive

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.

[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.

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.

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.

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.

[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.

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.

[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.

[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.

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.

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.

[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!

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.

[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.

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.

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.

How to Prepare for New York Cannabis License Applications: Helpful Tips and Lessons Learned from the Conditional License Application Process

By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Oct 18, 2022

Helpful tips and best practices to position you and your business for a smooth New York cannabis license application process.

VS to Support and Attend Business of Cannabis: New York Summit in November

Oct 14, 2022

Marc Ross will be representing VS on a panel at the Business of Cannabis: New York Summit on November 3!

Colorado Prop 122's Historic Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Requirements

By Marc Ross
Oct 11, 2022

Colorado Prop 122, The Natural Medicine Health Act, requires that licensed entities participating in the Natural Medicine Regulated Access Program must meet specific ESG criteria.

Legal ESG Summit features Marc Ross and other Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Thought Leaders on Law Firm ESG Culture Panel

Sep 21, 2022

Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) in the law firm setting is critical. Register for the Legal ESG Summit to hear VS’s Head of Impact and ESG Marc Ross moderate a panel on “Building a law firm ESG Culture“ on October 4!

The ESG Threat by Shareholders and Proxy Challenges

By Marc Ross
Sep 7, 2022

Socially responsible investors and activist board members have been throwing their ESG weight around during the last few proxy seasons at annual shareholder meetings. They demand action on climate change, diverse boards and senior leadership, restrict campaign donations, divestment in specific industries, and request measurement, benchmarking, and reporting of comprehensive ESG impacts.

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!

How to Qualify as Justice-Involved for a New York Cannabis Business CAURD License

By Kim Napoli, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 2, 2022

New York's Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) Licenses are reserved for "Justice-Involved" individuals disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. What does "Justice-Involved" mean, and how does one take advantage of the benefits associated with that classification?

Trademarking Your New York Cannabis Industry Business and Brand

By Erik Pelton
Jul 27, 2022

Looking to start a cannabis business in New York? When creating your business brand name and logo, don't forget to protect it with a trademark.

New York's Proposed Sustainable Packaging Requirements: Is it Enough?

By Marc Ross
Jun 7, 2022

New York's draft cannabis packaging regulations sustainability requirements are definitely a step forward for the industry, but will it be enough? Read this article to learn more about the requirements and gain insight into options for operators.

Vicente Sederberg Releases 2021 Impact Report, Celebrates Commitment to Community

Jun 1, 2022

In VS's inaugural Impact Report, we reflect on our work over the past year, celebrate our commitment to community, and look forward to a future of positive, meaningful, and measurable impact.

Cannalaw Summit 2022 Will Feature Vicente Sederberg Attorneys

Apr 25, 2022

Shawn Hauser, Kim Napoli, Marc Ross and Christian Sederberg will speak on cannabis policy, ESG, and social equity during the virtual Cannalaw Summit on May 3 & 4, 2022.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer Partners with NHCC to Highlight Cannabis Industry Opportunities for Latinos

Apr 21, 2022

Sen. Schumer and Antonio Valdez of the National Hispanic Cannabis Council co-authored a guest column for Univision about how Latinos can benefit from the cannabis economy.

Kim Napoli Recognized as 'Champion in Diversity & Inclusion' at 2022 New England Cannabis Community Awards

Apr 15, 2022

Kim Napoli was recognized by her peers during the 2022 NECANN Conference Community Awards

VS Client Spotlight Series: Devin Alexander of Rolling Releaf

Apr 11, 2022

VS is excited to share a series of client stories with the purpose of inspiring the next generation of leaders in the cannabis industry.

VS Client Spotlight Series: Bryan Murray of Acreage Holdings

Feb 22, 2022

VS is excited to share a series of client stories with the purpose of inspiring the next generation of leaders in the cannabis industry. In honor of Black History Month, we're kicking off the series with Black leaders in cannabis.

[Webinar] Cannabis Real Estate 101: A Primer for Social Equity Applicants & Entrepreneurs

Feb 17, 2022

Watch this recorded live session from March 10, 2022. With a focus on issues related to Social Equity Operators and those new to the cannabis industry, panelists address real estate topics from the operator, investor, and legal perspectives.

A Wish for the Cannabis Industry: Net Positive, Integrated CSR

By Marc Ross
Feb 8, 2022

The cannabis industry has a golden opportunity to lead in creating integrated Corporate Social Responsibility programs that are also net positive.

Marc Ross and Kim Napoli Talk Cannabis ESG and Social Equity on 'How to Launch an Industry' Podcast

Jan 25, 2022

Vicente Sederberg LLP Impact & ESG practice leaders recently joined the "How to Launch an Industry" podcast to discuss ESG in the cannabis industry. Listen here!

[Webinar] Cannabis Accounting 101: Intro to Accounting for Social Equity Operators

Dec 27, 2021

Watch this session to learn accounting best practices for cannabis businesses and how to prepare for year-end. With a focus on social equity operators, this session will advise on risk and opportunity related to the financial side of cannabis operations, as well as how to navigate the complexities of 280E.

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.

ABA Global Business of Cannabis Conference is Coming to Denver

Nov 9, 2021

The American Bar Association's International Law Section will host its first annual Global Business of Cannabis Conference in Denver, Colorado from November 10-12, 2021. Marc Ross is slated to join the panel "The Environmental Impact of Cannabis Cultivation: Does Legalization Make a Difference?"

Marc Ross to Discuss the C-Suite's ESG Perspective at Upcoming Cannabis Sustainability Symposium

Nov 9, 2021

What exactly is the business case for a company going down the ESG path? Marc Ross will join a stellar group of panelists to discuss this and other topics at the Cannabis Sustainability Symposium on November 18, 2021.

Marc Ross Slated to Speak at Legal ESG Summit

Oct 14, 2021

VS counsel and head of impact & ESG, Marc Ross, is slated to speak at the Legal ESG Summit on Tuesday, October 26 at 2:45 p.m. CT.

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!

[Webinar] Growing Greener: Navigating Environmental Laws

Sep 22, 2021

Watch this session to learn the basics of environmental laws, regulations that apply to the cannabis industry, and how your cannabis business can mitigate risk against costly enforcement actions by regulatory agencies.

Kim Napoli Recognized as 'Champion of Corporate Responsibility' at 2021 NECANN Cannabis Community Awards

Sep 20, 2021

Kim Napoli was nominated by her peers for two awards at this years' NECANN Conference Community Awards and ultimately voted the Champion of Corporate Responsibility!

Kim Napoli Slated to Speak on Cannabis Activism Panel at MassCann Boston Freedom Rally

Sep 16, 2021

Find Kim Napoli on the Education Village Stage at 3 p.m. Joining Kim are Blake Mensing, Robert Jeffrey, Dick Evans and Jason Ortiz.

The Cannabis Industry’s Environmental Compliance Conundrum

By Marc Ross
Sep 14, 2021

Operators in the nascent cannabis industry have a lot to worry about on a daily basis, but compliance with state and federal environmental laws hasn’t been an issue of concern for most. That needs to change immediately.

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.

Michelle Bodian Featured in INCBA CLE: Hemp 301

Aug 20, 2021

VS attorney Michelle Bodian discusses the hemp industry's environmental challenges and opportunities in this on-demand CLE from the INCBA

Jeffrey Welsh Interviews Corvain Cooper of Cannabis Social Impact Brand Brand 40 Tons on Highly Capitalized Network

Aug 6, 2021

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh recently sat down with Corvain Cooper, chief brand ambassador of social impact cannabis brand 40 Tons, at the Highly Capitalized Studios in Los Angeles.

Jeffrey Welsh Interviews Social Impact Cannabis Brand 40 Tons on Highly Capitalized Network

Jul 27, 2021

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh sat down with Loriel and Anthony Alegrete of social impact cannabis brand 40 Tons at the Highly Capitalized Studios in Los Angeles.

National Hemp Month Spotlight: Hemp Paper and Plastics

By Jace Pohlman, Law Clerk
Jul 23, 2021

As part of National Hemp Month, we're highlighting beneficial ways to use hemp and hemp products in our daily lives. This post will focus on using hemp in paper and plastic materials.

Marc Ross Talks ESG on Cannabis Law Report's Karma Koala Podcast

Jul 6, 2021

Marc Ross spoke with Heather Allman of Cannabis Law Report about what ESG is and why it's important for the cannabis industry.

[Webinar] From CEP to SIP: Social Impact Plans and Annual Reports for Denver Cannabis Businesses

Jul 2, 2021

Denver marijuana licensees are now required to submit Social Impact Plans as part of license renewals and applications. Watch this session to learn about the new requirements.

Environmental, Social, & Governance: The Perfect Storm for the Cannabis Industry

By Marc A. Ross
Jun 30, 2021

The growth of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measurement, benchmarking and reporting has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years. When will the cannabis industry start to do it?

[Webinar] Impact and ESG in the Cannabis Industry

Jun 15, 2021

Watch this recorded session to meet the new VS Impact & ESG team, learn more about this emerging business priority, and how to start planning and measuring your ESG practice – including Corporate Social Responsibility programs, meaningful Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts, environmental sustainability, and community and employee engagement.

When Do You Need Cannabis Regulatory Counsel? A Guide for Corporate Counsel

By Charles Alovisetti, Sally Kent Peebles
Jan 15, 2021

As more law firms are fielding client questions about cannabis industry transactions, it can be challenging for corporate counsel to identify when they need cannabis regulatory counsel.

The Cannabis Business: Understanding Law, Finance, and Governance in America's Newest Industry

By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 18, 2020

Vicente Sederberg attorneys wrote the book on cannabis law — and now you can own it! This comprehensive primer on all things cannabis law is a must-have for anyone seeking to understand the major practical legal issues facing the marijuana and hemp industries.

Protect Your Brand! Cannabis Trademark Strategies and Benefits

Sep 23, 2020

Watch this virtual discussion on cannabis trademarks and intellectual property with Sahar Ayinehsazian, Erik Pelton and Jeffrey Welsh.

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.

Trademark Protection for Cannabis, Hemp and CBD Brands

Dec 11, 2019

What brand protection options are available for businesses in the cannabis, hemp, CBD or related industries? Watch this presentation to better understand the tactics your business can implement to increase protection for brand names, logos, and slogans.