Sep 12, 2025
Vicente LLP counsel Neil Willner will be in Buffalo this September for the NCSLA 2025 Alcohol Regulation Conference. From September 14–16, regulators, attorneys, and industry leaders will gather to discuss the future of alcohol regulation and policy. Register now!
By Charles Alovisetti
Sep 12, 2025
The Second Circuit’s Variscite ruling is reshaping how courts view cannabis residency requirements and intrastate licensing systems. By striking down New York’s program as unconstitutional, the court signaled that protectionist rules are increasingly vulnerable. This article breaks down the Variscite ruling, how other courts are addressing Dormant Commerce Clause challenges, and what this means for social equity programs, sourcing requirements, and the future of interstate cannabis markets.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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
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.
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!
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!
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
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
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
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
Oct 20, 2023
Vicente LLP partner Jennifer Cabrera was recognized by Super Lawyers for her exceptional legal work in New York! Congratulations Jennifer!
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Mar 9, 2023
Watch this session to learn how cannabis regulations impact M&A transactions and financings in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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."
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.
Oct 19, 2022
Watch this recorded session for insight into the current market data and projected future of NY’s cannabis market.
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.
Oct 17, 2022
Michelle Bodian will be discussing the Tri-State licensing landscape at Arcview Access Cannabis Investment Summit on October 20!
Oct 14, 2022
Marc Ross will be representing VS on a panel at the Business of Cannabis: New York Summit on November 3!
Sep 29, 2022
Interested in New York’s cannabis application process and available funding resources for your business? The next B.I.G. cannabis workshop is on October 4 and features VS’s Jennifer Cabrera.
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.
By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 24, 2022
We anticipate New York's adult-use cannabis rules will be one of the country's strictest in terms of environmental and energy standards and best practices for water and energy conservation. Regardless of what license type you're interested in pursuing or have already obtained, you'll need to add "environmental considerations" to your mental to-do list.
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.
Aug 17, 2022
Jennifer Cabrera is scheduled to present on Predatory Practices in the Cannabis Industry in Brooklyn, New York on August 28, 2022 for the Revelry Summit.
Aug 17, 2022
Charles Alovisetti will be attending Empire State of Law: Hosted by LVLUP Legal in NYC for a panel titled, "Legalize It: Cannabis & Regulations" in NYC!
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 16, 2022
On August 12, 2022, New York state announced the application window for Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary Licenses (CAURD), which will be the first batch of adult-use retail licenses released in New York. CAURD applications will be available starting August 25, 2022 and close on September 26, 2022.
Aug 12, 2022
Jennifer Cabrera will discuss Challenges, Choice, and Opportunity in the Metropolitan Cannabis Industry with New York and New Jersey cannabis social equity advocates, black businesses, thought experts, elected officials and concerned citizens on August 16, 2022.
Aug 10, 2022
Michelle Bodian and Jen Flanagan will be speaking at 2022 New York Cannabis Convention hosted by NECANN
By Jen Flanagan
Aug 4, 2022
One of the most overlooked components of applying for a cannabis license is the importance of interacting with your local and state officials. In this article, former cannabis regulator Jen Flanagan offers some guidance on building rapport with elected officials and government employees.
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?
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.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Jul 22, 2022
Jennifer Cabrera recently attended the NHCC's Tri-state Chapter kickoff. The event brought together people from all facets of the cannabis industry with a common purpose: to create an industry that looks as diverse as our communities.
By Jennifer Cabrera, David Ullian
Jul 21, 2022
So, you decided to start a cannabis business in New York. With the release of more license categories on the horizon, it’s an exciting and hectic time. Read this for some important tips and things to keep in mind when looking for real estate.
Jul 21, 2022
Congratulations to the VS attorneys selected to the 2022 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists in Massachusetts and New York!
By Zachary Windham
Jul 13, 2022
The New York cannabis rush is here, and with the release of more license categories on the horizon, cannabis entrepreneurs are (hopefully) busy preparing for the upcoming historical licensing round. Read this VS Insight focusing on a crucial first step for any company—creating a plan and forming a business.
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.
Jul 5, 2022
Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
By Brandon Kurtzman, Bridgette Nikisher
Jul 5, 2022
To beat the summer slump, VS’s New York team created an eight-part series of VS Insights to help you prepare for your New York cannabis business license application. Read the first article of the series, which focuses on helpful tips to put your best foot forward for the licensing process.
By Michelle Bodian, Brandon Kurtzman
Jun 23, 2022
Dormitory Authority State of NY released an RFP for developing social equity program cannabis dispensaries, showing some expected license requirements. Read this for highlights from the RFP.
Jun 13, 2022
NHCC will host an event to launch its Tri-State chapter at Mi Casa Creative on July 14, 2022 in NYC. RSVP here!
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.
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.
May 11, 2022
On May 19, 2022, a live INCBA CLE webinar about cannabis licensing in New York will feature VS counsel Michelle Bodian.
May 10, 2022
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends in person May 18-20, 2022 at MJ Unpacked in New York City!
May 6, 2022
VS attorneys Michelle Bodian and Jennifer Cabrera will participate in an NHCC roundtable focused on New York's cannabis industry on May 12.
May 6, 2022
VS attorneys Michelle Bodian and Jennifer Cabrera will participate in an NHCC roundtable focused on New York's cannabis industry on May 12.
Mar 28, 2022
Watch this session to learn more about the New York adult-use cannabis conditional cultivator license and how you can prepare.
By Jen Flanagan
Mar 9, 2022
Utilizing these tips can make a world of difference in your interaction with local and state governments.
Mar 1, 2022
The Business of Cannabis: New York Sessions event will focus on the critically important topic of connecting social equity licensees to capital.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Feb 16, 2022
The law is intended to accelerate the cultivation, processing, and distribution of cannabis in New York.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Jen Flanagan
Jan 29, 2022
This LexisNexis practice note offers a greater understanding of the varied processes that impact the legalization of cannabis at the state level and discusses how evolving state statutes and regulatory structures impact the adult-use cannabis industry.
Jan 25, 2022
VS partner Brandon Kurtzman recently sat down with Business of Cannabis to discuss the cannabis market that's on everyone's minds: New York.
By Charles Alovisetti, Michelle Bodian, Brandon Kurtzman
Jan 18, 2022
While we still don’t have draft or final cannabis regulations, applications, or a definitive timetable, plenty of new information has come out since legalization. Read this article for ten key updates about New York’s market in the past year.
Jan 11, 2022
Watch this session for a look back at 2021 tri-state cannabis developments and a look forward to expectations for 2022.
Oct 20, 2021
VS attorneys Michelle and Brandon are slated to join the panel "Opportunities at the Intersection of Hemp and Marijuana" on Friday, November 5 at CWCB Expo in New York City.
Oct 5, 2021
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!
By Bridgette Nikisher
Sep 23, 2021
Gov. Hochul made final appointments to the CCB. Now the Office of Cannabis Management can get to work.
Aug 19, 2021
Vicente Sederberg LLP is pleased to share that five lawyers representing the firm’s Colorado, Massachusetts, and New York offices were recognized by their attorney peers in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Aug 11, 2021
New York Gov. Cuomo announced his plans to step down as governor, effective August 24, 2021. On that day, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will step into the governorship. What will this mean for implementing adult-use cannabis in the Empire State?
Jun 23, 2021
Join VS for a free webinar on June 29 that will cover the latest updates on cannabis legalization and implementation in CT, NJ, and NY
Jun 9, 2021
This week in federal court, VS counsel Shane Pennington will give oral arguments to get cannabis out of the Schedule 1 drug classification.
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.
May 5, 2021
Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.
Apr 9, 2021
Watch this presentation for a look into the new law, how it will be implemented, and the opportunities it will create for businesses and individuals.
Apr 5, 2021
VS partner Charles Alovisetti recently talked about his book 'The Cannabis Business' with host Bethany Moore on NCIA's cannabis industry podcast
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.
Mar 22, 2021
VS counsel Jennifer Cabrera will participate in a panel on April 8, 2021.
Mar 15, 2021
VS attorney Elliot Choi will join Rick Kaplan of NYREJ on April 8 for a discussion on cannabis industry real estate investments in New York City.
Mar 11, 2021
Jennifer Cabrera will join leaders from Armanino LLP, Mammoth Distribution, and Reed Smith LLP for a cannabis interstate trade trends and insights fireside chat on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 12 p.m. PT.
Feb 16, 2021
Black Cannabis Equity Initiative will host a community conversation about Black history and cannabis social equity in the Garden State on Feb 19, 2021.
By Michelle Bodian
Feb 10, 2021
With state legislative sessions in full swing, plenty of hemp and CBD bills have been filed across the country.
Feb 4, 2021
A look into cannabis legalization, markets, and opportunities in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.
Jan 22, 2021
An overview of the timelines and opportunities for economic empowerment and small businesses in New Jersey and New York.
Jan 22, 2021
VS counsel Elliot Choi will moderate a panel with two of Governor Cuomo's top officials working on cannabis policy issues.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Dec 22, 2020
With its plan to regulate and tax adult-use cannabis sales underway, the Garden State is easily positioned to be the East Coast’s cannabis leader in sales and regulatory practices that support and promote small, locally-owned businesses and equitable ownership.
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.
Nov 25, 2020
Update on hemp legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
By Michelle Bodian
Oct 29, 2020
New York State Department of Health published draft regulations for the processing and retail sale of cannabinoid hemp.
Sep 3, 2020
Jennifer will present "Litigation is Coming! What Cannabis Businesses Need to Know Now" at NECANN Online on September 26, 2020.
Aug 21, 2020
VS attorney Jennifer Cabrera will discuss how legalization will affect NJ municipalities in this event from NJ Cannabis Insider.
Jul 30, 2020
Watch this to hear about unique business issues in the cannabis industry, including real estate difficulties, in this interview with Rick Kaplan of NYREJ.
Jun 22, 2020
Elliot Choi joined Cannabis Legalization News in a recent livestream to discuss New York’s cannabis initiatives.
By Elliot Choi, Jennifer Cabrera, and Jacob Setton
Apr 29, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in New York.
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.
Apr 17, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on hemp businesses, service providers, and consumers.
By Elliot Choi, Jacob Setton
Apr 13, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in New Jersey.
Mar 16, 2020
VS is open for business and communicating with regulators to help answer your questions.
By Elliot Choi, Counsel; Jennifer Cabrera, Counsel
Feb 20, 2020
In January 2020, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo released a draft budget that included a proposal for adult-use cannabis legalization for the Empire State.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Counsel; David Kramer, Senior Associate; Michelle Bodian, Senior Associate
Dec 19, 2019
A summary of New York's newly signed hemp law, one of the most comprehensive state laws regulating the cultivation, manufacture, and sale of hemp and hemp extracts.
Nov 4, 2019
VS Counsel Jennifer Cabrera will lead a New Jersey cannabis workshop at Union County College on November 7, 2019.
Aug 15, 2019
VS Counsel Jennifer Cabrera will lead a workshop at Union County College where attendees will learn how cannabis works, how patients can acquire it in New Jersey, and the benefits, side effects and risks associated with medical marijuana use.
Jun 20, 2019
Jennifer Cabrera will lead a cannabis workshop at Union County College in Cranford, NJ on June 27, 2019.