The growing body of research into the therapeutic use of psilocybin, ketamine, MDMA, and other psychedelics and emerging therapies is inspiring policymakers, medical experts, and the public to reexamine drug policy at every level of government.
As a firm dedicated to representing emerging fields for over a decade, Vicente LLP understands the complexities of transitioning a controlled substance from a prohibition model to a regulated system. From unique company formations and contracts to obtaining licensure and regulatory compliance, our attorneys and specialists guide clients through the complicated issues that businesses and entrepreneurs encounter in an emerging and highly regulated industry. We also help advocacy groups and state, local, and federal governments develop sensible policy solutions that advance the public interest and ensure decriminalization and responsible regulation of natural medicines.
Whether you are a healthcare practitioner, researcher, producer, manufacturer, investor, patient, community healer, entrepreneur, or government agency, or you are interested or currently manufacturing and researching psychedelics under federal DEA licensure and developing drugs, Vicente is here to help you navigate the growing patchwork of state laws and evolving federal laws regulating psychedelics and emerging therapies—including, but not limited to the Controlled Substances Act, Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and relevant federal and state criminal and drug control laws.
Passed in 2022, The Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA) decriminalized adult possession of natural medicines (including psilocybin, psilocin, mescaline not derived from peyote, ibogaine and DMT), and initiated the process of creating regulated healing centers in Colorado. Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel served as a lead drafter and a leading member of the campaign for the NMHA. Our team is actively involved in the development and implementation of the NMHA and other psychedelic laws and policies in the U.S. and abroad.
Healthcare providers, patients, facilitators, government agencies, and others turn to Vicente LLP for strategic guidance, monitoring, and compliance with these new laws. And, through a strategic alliance with Kleinfeld, Kaplan & Becker LLP (KKB), a Washington, D.C.-based firm concentrated on products subject to the jurisdiction of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), we help clients develop product development strategies, prepare stances, prepare prosecuting investigational new drug (IND) exemptions and new drug applications (NDA), and comply with current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) and other requirements.
Click the "Services" and “Experience” tabs below to learn more about Vicente LLP’s work in the emerging psychedelics field.
Creation, drafting, and strategic implementation of local, state, and federal psychedelic policy reform measures
Monitoring services and strategic guidance regarding state and federal laws governing the personal and commercial use and distribution of psychedelics
Risk assessment for practitioners and other health care professionals providing emerging therapies
Risk management advice, including waivers, insurance, professional licensure, and best practices
Assisting clients in obtaining DEA and state licensure for the manufacturing and research of psychedelics
Guiding clients through the complex federal and state regulations applicable to researching, manufacturing, storing, importing, exporting, and marketing of controlled substances
Protecting the religious freedoms and first amendment rights of organizations traditionally involved in entheogen practices
Preparing applications for licensure under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act
Preparing applications for licensure under Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act
Helping professional organizations shape ethical guidelines and set standards for practitioners in emerging therapies
Delivering a full suite of compliance services for federally and state-licensed facilities, including facilities growing, researching, and manufacturing psilocybin, LSD and other substances
Advising clients regarding the personal use of psychedelics in legal states
Providing guidance on FDA, DEA, and FTC compliance
Providing full-service corporate representation, including corporate formation
Advising on Alternative Corporate Structures, including forming benefit corporations, perpetual purpose trusts, and benefit sharing/honoring
Assisting with commercial contracts, including various agreements and leases
Providing strategic guidance for research and intellectual property development
Advisement for real estate leasing and licensing issues
Leading impact litigation cases, including actions against the DEA relating to the scheduling of therapeutic medicine and Right to Try laws
Advocating for federal and state legislation regarding therapeutic access to psychedelics and scheduling reform
Via our alliance with Kleinfeld, Kaplan & Becker, we can assist with:
Navigating federal and state regulations applicable to researching, manufacturing, storing, importing, exporting, and marketing of controlled substances
Complying with the FDA requirements for developing, researching, manufacturing, obtaining regulatory approvals and clearances, and marketing novel and emerging therapeutic products
Managing issues presented by developing professional licensure and scope-of-practice requirements applicable to researchers and healthcare providers working with novel and emerging therapeutic products
Shaped federal and state psychedelics laws, including providing legal and policy guidance to key federal and state legislators and regulators.
Co-authored Colorado Proposition 122—the Natural Medicine Health Act of 2022—the historic state-wide measure that created equitable access to natural psychedelic medicines through a regulated supervised-use model and by decriminalizing personal and communal use.
Assisted Decriminalize Denver with drafting and strategy for the successful 2019 Denver Psilocybin Initiative. The historic local ballot measure designated possession of psilocybin mushrooms by persons age 21 and older the city’s lowest law-enforcement priority, and it prohibited the city from spending resources to impose criminal penalties for such activities.
Advised Decriminalize Nature on the Oakland Community Healing Initiative, including policy and legal considerations applicable to drafting a regulatory system that allows for legal access to entheogens.
Provided compliance services to state and federally licensed facilities growing, researching, and manufacturing psilocybin, cannabis, LSD, and other substances.
Provided compliance, regulatory, and strategic counsel for DEA-licensed facilities.
Advised the Heroic Hearts Project, a national nonprofit that connects military veterans struggling with mental trauma to ayahuasca therapy retreats.
Advised multiple clients engaging in legal psychedelics-based therapy and related services, including drafting liability waivers and advising on corporate structure and procedure.
Advised a technology company on legal issues related to psychedelic therapies.
Advised an entrepreneur regarding the legality of psilocybin production and research.
Advised multiple clients regarding biosynthetic cannabinoid production, including legal analyses with regard to the Controlled Substance Act, the Federal Analogue Act, and similar laws at the state level.
Advised a member of the Native American Church regarding unfair treatment by local law enforcement in connection with legal activities with entheogens.
By Genevieve Meehan, Barine Majewska
Apr 9, 2025
New Mexico becomes the third state in the U.S. to legalize the supervised medical use of psilocybin with the passage of Senate Bill 219, the Medical Psilocybin Act. Notably, the bill was mandated by New Mexico’s legislature, and not by voter ballot measure as in Colorado and Oregon.
Mar 24, 2025
Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel is slated to speak during NoCo Hemp Expo 2025 in a panel about the current landscape for psilocybin therapy. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with multiple members of our team in Estes Park during the event. If you’ll be attending, be sure to reach out—we’d love to connect!
Mar 20, 2025
The 2025 SXSW Conference featured Barine Majewska on its Psychedelics track scheduled for March 8-10. Listen to the panel replay for insights from Barine and other psychedelics professionals about ethical considerations and challenges in psychedelic care.
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.
Mar 7, 2025
Vicente partner Joshua Kappel joined Healing Advocacy Fund and the National Psychedelics Association during the “Nuts & Bolts: Colorado Natural Medicine Business Webinar,” which provided insights for business license applicants navigating Colorado’s regulated natural medicine program, including regulatory requirements, business structuring, and legal considerations. Watch the replay!
By Juliana Todeschi, Joshua Kappel
Mar 4, 2025
Colorado’s Natural Medicine Division has finalized its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements for Natural Medicine Business licensing. These guidelines help applicants create plans that promote sustainability, social impact, and ethical governance. Notably, the rules emphasize honoring Indigenous communities and ensuring transparency in business operations.
Feb 21, 2025
Vicente LLP is proud to announce that founding partner Joshua Kappel has been recognized as a 2025 Lawyer of the Year by Law Week Colorado. This honor highlights his outstanding leadership in cannabis and psychedelics law, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping policy such as Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act and Amendment 64, advocating for drug reform nationwide, and guiding businesses in these evolving sectors.
Feb 19, 2025
Watch this recorded session, where members of Vicente’s Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies team provide an overview of Colorado’s Natural Medicine program and answer attendee questions related to starting a natural medicine business, facilitator license requirements, manufacturing, healing centers, personal use provisions, property zoning, advertising restrictions and more.
Feb 6, 2025
Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jan 8, 2025
Colorado's Natural Medicine Program has officially opened applications for facilitators and businesses. Prospective licensing applicants can access licensing guides and FAQs published by the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), which include operational guidelines for businesses interested in the cultivation, manufacturing, and testing of natural medicine products and more. In this Bulletin, we examine the remaining open questions for the program, as well as several ongoing controversies, the most significant being the questions of at-home facilitation and microdosing.
By Charlie Alovisetti, Juliana Todeschi
Jan 7, 2025
Kratom is a growing, billion-dollar industry in the U.S., but the legal landscape for kratom is complex and rapidly evolving. This article examines the current federal and state approaches to kratom regulation and offers insights for operating in this high-risk space.
Dec 18, 2024
Join Vicente LLP and Healing Advocacy Fund in a pre-recorded session for an opportunity to hear how Colorado’s Natural Medicine Program rules have come together. We will also discuss business structures and licensing, followed by a Q&A session with leading psychedelic policy experts.
Nov 8, 2024
Vicente counsel Barine Majewska will provide insights into starting a business in Oregon and Colorado’s state-regulated psychedelics market during MJBizCon’s pre-conference reMind Psychedelics Business Forum on December 3. Learn more and register now!
Nov 8, 2024
On November 13, Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel will provide training for DU Law students on how to get involved with local and state drug policy during a two-part educational series hosted by Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP).
Oct 30, 2024
Join Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel on November 8 for the 2024 Colorado Psychological Association’s Fall Symposium on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. Joshua will discuss the process required to access psilocybin therapy in Colorado, the qualifications and training requirements to become a licensed facilitator, and more during his session. Register now!
Oct 24, 2024
Campaign leaders and experts at Vicente LLP and Marijuana Policy Project discuss the details of various cannabis reform initiatives on the 2024 election ballot and potential opportunities in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, and South Dakota's cannabis markets during this webinar. Plus, panelists provide an update on psychedelic reform in Massachusetts.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 24, 2024
Having completed the initial rulemaking push in July, Colorado regulators are putting the finishing touches on the state’s regulated Natural Medicine program by fine-tuning rules and setting fees. Since Bulletin 13, The Department of Revenue’s Natural Medicine Division released proposed fees for Natural Medicine Businesses. The Department of Regulatory Agencies’ Office of Natural Medicine Licensure recently published proposed revisions to rules related to facilitator licensing and training. Simultaneously, the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, its subcommittees, and the Federally Recognized American Tribes and Indigenous Community Working Group continue to grapple with remaining issues, old and new. In this Bulletin, we first look at big-picture questions such as fees and rule changes. Then, we’ll look at what each group has been working on since the last update.
Oct 7, 2024
Vicente founding partner Josh Kappel discusses his extensive work in psychedelic policy reform, Colorado’s Natural Medicine Program and his predictions about the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy across the United States on Third Wave’s “The Psychedelic Podcast.” Listen now!
Sep 25, 2024
Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP
Aug 28, 2024
Join Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel and Healing Advocacy Fund director Natasia Poinsatte for a reMind webinar on September 10 to learn about Colorado’s final rules for its psychedelic therapy program. Register now!
By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska
Aug 23, 2024
Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies and Department of Revenue have finalized rules for facilitator licensing and business operations under the Natural Medicine program, which launches January 1. Read on for the latest update on the rules, local government restrictions and proposed licensing and application fees.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 21, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. As the first round of rulemaking for Colorado’s regulated Natural Medicine program comes to a close, Vicente LLP and Psychedelic Alpha provide an overview of the first set of final rules which give a good picture of how the state will regulate facilitators, their training programs, and other Natural Medicine Businesses.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 21, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. The Natural Medicine Advisory Board (“NMAB”), as well as the Federally Recognized Tribes and Indigenous Community Working Group, are continuing to develop recommendations. The Department of Revenue (“DOR”) has concluded its initial rulemaking, having released a final set of consolidated draft rules and held final public comment.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jul 11, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. After months of meetings and revisions, regulations are close to completion. The rules cover licensing and conduct for facilitators and businesses that cultivate, manufacture or sell natural medicine products. Public comment on the proposed rules ends soon, with upcoming meetings for those interested in learning more and providing feedback.
By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska, Jeff Fitzgerald
Jul 3, 2024
Facilitator Training Program applications are the first available under Colorado's new Natural Medicine Health program. Learn about the application process in this Vicente Insights article.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Jun 13, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #11.5 features a deep dive into the current state of the program's rules. Facilitator training, licensing, and business regulations are all being actively established, with details on license types, qualifications, and operational requirements. The public is encouraged to participate in shaping these rules through written comments and hearings.
Jun 13, 2024
Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP
Jun 6, 2024
Vicente LLP is thrilled to announce that we are the first—and only—law firm to be ranked by Chambers USA in the top tier for both cannabis and psychedelics law, further cementing our position as the unquestioned leader in drug law and policy.
May 23, 2024
Watch this session hosted by Vicente’s Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies team. We dive into the rules and discuss what you need to know to be prepared to participate in Colorado's Natural Medicine program launching on January 1, 2025!
May 14, 2024
Join Vicente LLP attorneys at the 2024 Aspen Psychedelic Symposium for a weekend of panels, groundbreaking research, and firsthand insights into the transformative world of psychedelic medicines. This two-day gathering, sponsored by Vicente, will take place in Aspen, Colorado, from May 31 to June 1. Register now!
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 30, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #11 features summaries of the draft rules covering licensing and financial interests and general/operational rules, the stakeholder meeting feedback on those rules, and notes from the combined subcommittee meeting on April 12 and the full Natural Medicine Advisory Board meeting on April 19.
By Barine Majewska
Apr 24, 2024
DORA recently presented additional draft rules for Colorado’s regulated natural medicine market to the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, focused on facilitator conduct and relationships, administrative sessions, informed consent, record keeping and advertising. DORA will host a virtual public hearing on the new rules on April 26 and the Natural Medicine Division of the Department of Revenue will host a stakeholder meeting on Healing Center requirements on May 1. These are important opportunities to make your voices heard! Read this article for details on the rules and instructions for joining the meetings.
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 12, 2024
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 9, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #10.1 features Vicente LLP's review of SB 24-198, the first legislative update since the passing of SB23-290 in 2023, which implemented the NMHA.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Apr 6, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #10 focuses on updates from the recent meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board, where draft rules for Facilitator licensing and training were discussed.
Apr 5, 2024
Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel and counsel Barine Majewska will be at the upcoming “Cultivating Roots for Cultural Change: the Bay Area’s Annual Spring Conference on Plant Medicines & Psychedelic Science.” Hosted by Chacruna, the event will take place on April 27 and 28, 2024, at the historical Brava Theater Center in San Francisco, California.
Apr 5, 2024
On April 18, 2024, Vicente LLP attorneys Joshua Kappel and Barine Majewska will attend the “Bridging the Worlds: The Confluence of Indigenous Wisdom and Psychedelic Science” conference at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO. Vicente is a sponsor of the event, which will explore the future of psychedelic research in the context of its historical and cultural significance.
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Mar 20, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #9 focuses on updates from the recent meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and listening sessions held by the Department of Revenue and the Department of Regulatory Agencies Stakeholder Engagement Meeting.
Mar 15, 2024
On April 2, The Emerald Conference will feature a talk by Vicente LLP director of economics and research Andrew Livingston on how variations between the cannabis and psychedelic markets may influence research design, data collection, and overall program evaluation. Register to attend and learn more!
By Vicente LLP, Psychedelic Alpha
Mar 5, 2024
Vicente LLP provides a full breakdown of the first set of draft rules regarding Colorado's regulated psychedelics program. The thirty-nine pages of draft rules cover facilitator licensing and training programs, representing months of work by the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and state regulators.
By Yolanda Clarke
Feb 27, 2024
Oregon's psilocybin program has updated its regulations, clarifying existing rules and addressing new areas like data reporting and facilitator training. Key changes involve distinguishing between mandatory anonymized data collection and optional personal information from clients, requiring state licensing or specific exemptions for facilitator training programs, and emphasizing nondirective facilitation with support resources instead of advice. Read this Insights post to learn more about the recent rule changes for psilocybin in Oregon.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 27, 2024
Vicente LLP shares a high-level overview of the first draft rules for Colorado's regulated natural medicine market. These draft rules focus on facilitator qualifications, education requirements, and training programs.
Feb 20, 2024
Federal and international law and policy insights, news and events from Vicente LLP
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 15, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #8.1 gives context to the 123 recommendations which will form the basis of the regulated nature medicine program approved by Colorado voters in November 2022.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Feb 14, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #8 focuses on updates on the NMAB's initial set of recommendations for the state’s regulated natural medicine program
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Jan 18, 2024
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #7 focuses on updates from the recent subcommittee meetings.
Dec 19, 2023
On Wednesday, January 10, 2024, Vicente LLP partners Shawn Hauser and Sally Kent Peebles will be participating in a psychedelics investor forum in Nosara, Costa Rica! This is a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to exploring the latest national legislation and its pivotal impact on mental health. Register now!
Dec 19, 2023
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Dec 13, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #6 focuses on updates from the recent subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.
By Jason Adelstone
Dec 7, 2023
On October 27, 2023, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, in Aggarwal v. DEA, held that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) must reconsider its denial of a petition to transfer psilocybin, the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms” from Schedule I to Schedule II. Read this Insights post for more information about the Ninth Circuit Court’s order to reschedule psilocybin.
Nov 29, 2023
Vicente LLP psychedelics attorneys Joshua Kappel and Shawn Hauser were selected to speak on panels focused on functional alcohol substitutes and psilocybin medicine during the Psychedelics Track at SXSW in March 2024.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Nov 14, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #5 focuses on updates from the October subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.
Oct 26, 2023
Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel will discuss the new age of psychedelics and how natural medicines can help entrepreneurs at the prestigious Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala on November 1.
Oct 26, 2023
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 24, 2023
As part of the pre-rulemaking process, the Colorado Department of Revenue's Natural Medicine Division began holding public “Listening Sessions” with the goal of gathering information from the public at large. The October sessions consisted of five, one-hour, online meetings focused on specific topics announced in advance. Read this article for a summary of the first five sessions.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Oct 17, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #4 focuses on updates from the September subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.
Oct 17, 2023
Watch Vicente LLP partner Shawn Hauser present on Thursday, November 9 during Wonderland Miami! Shawn is slated to discuss the state of the emerging psychedelics industries in Oregon and Colorado. Register now!
Sep 11, 2023
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
Sep 11, 2023
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Sep 7, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #3 focuses on updates from the August subcommittee meetings and the full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board. In addition, the Department of Revenue will hold NMHA listening sessions throughout September.
Aug 29, 2023
What are the latest updates on Natural Medicines in Colorado? What are the opportunities for entering Colorado’s psychedelic ecosystem? Attend Joshua Kappel and Yolanda Clarke’s sessions at PsyCon Denver on September 29 to find out the answers to these questions. Register now!
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 14, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #2 focuses on updates from the July subcommittee meetings and full meeting of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board.
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 14, 2023
Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Bulletins provide updates on the implementation of Colorado's legal psychedelics program, the Natural Medicine Health Act. Bulletin #1 focuses on the Natural Medicine Advisory Board: What is the board, how does the board work, what subcommittees exist, what have they done so far, and what's next?
By Joshua Kappel, Jeff Fitzgerald, Psychedelic Alpha
Aug 11, 2023
Vicente LLP is collaborating with Psychedelic Alpha to produce the Colorado Natural Medicine Health Act Tracker, which is dedicated to being a clearinghouse for the implementation of Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act, with a focus on the work of the Natural Medicine Advisory Board and its subcommittees.
Jul 12, 2023
Learn about and support psychedelic policy by attending a community educational forum on psilocybin, featuring Vicente LLP founding partner Joshua Kappel, at the West Hollywood City Council Chambers on July 25, 2023. The educational forum will explore the full spectrum of psilocybin-related topics, including a discussion of past and current legislation aimed at decriminalizing psilocybin mushrooms and other hallucinogenic substances.
Jul 7, 2023
Psychedelics and emerging therapies-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news from Vicente LLP.
Jun 7, 2023
The largest psychedelic gathering in history is coming to Denver June 19-23 and Vicente LLP is ecstatic to sponsor the conference and welcome the global psychedelic community to our hometown. Let’s connect at the conference and the many networking events that week!
May 29, 2023
Colorado is the first state to decriminalize natural psychedelics for personal and communal use. This guide contains information on personal use, civil protections, and Colorado's regulated natural medicine access program. Natural psychedelics remain illegal under federal law. Please be conscientious and know the laws.
By Joshua Kappel, Juliana Todeschi, George Winfrey
May 24, 2023
Another key step in bringing natural psychedelic medicine to Colorado was completed this week. Governor Polis signed SB23-290, the Natural Medicine Health Act’s implementation bill. This bill is the most comprehensive piece of legislation ever passed by a state government related to a state-authorized natural psychedelic medicine program. It builds upon the values of the NMHA with a renewed focus on indigenous voices, safety, and regulatory efficiency. The measure goes into effect on July 1, 2023. Read our full analysis of the bill.
May 11, 2023
With ketamine being the only approved psychedelic drug for medical use, ketamine clinics offer a unique opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs looking to enter the expanding market of innovative mental health therapies. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the growing demand for ketamine clinics and the unique regulatory considerations involved in transactions involving these businesses.
May 10, 2023
Vicente psychedelics and emerging therapies attorney Yolanda Clarke will share Oregon psilocybin licensing tips and insights at Psycon Oregon on May 19.
By Genevieve Meehan and Sara Simons
May 3, 2023
Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), made its way through the Colorado Legislature and now awaits the governor's signature. Although the bill started off with a couple of policy positions that were antithetical to the voter-initiated act, after a series of amendments and a lot of work by Colorado activists and lawyers, it seems clear SB23-290 builds off the intent of the NMHA to create a natural psychedelic ecosystem in Colorado based in equity and safety. Read this Vicente Insights post for key aspects of the bill.
By Joshua Kappel
May 1, 2023
Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), made its way through the Colorado House and has now passed with amendments that have generally brought this bill even closer to the original intent of Prop 122! Read this Vicente Insights post for the latest updates and next steps for the bill.
By Joshua Kappel, Juliana Todeschi
Apr 25, 2023
Since its introduction on April 18, SB23-290, the implementation bill for the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA), has gone through the Colorado Senate Finance and Appropriations Committees and several amendments have been made. The reengrossed version of the now 91-page bill heads to the state House with a new sponsor, Representative Judy Amabile. Read this Vicente Insights post for the latest updates and next steps for the bill.
By Joshua Kappel
Apr 21, 2023
SB23-290, the Natural Medicine Health Act (NMHA) implementation bill, had a hearing on April 20 in Colorado’s Senate Finance Committee. Amendments made during the hearing were a significant step in the right direction. Read this Vicente Insights post for our summary of the hearing and next steps for the bill.
By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska
Apr 19, 2023
SB23-290 was introduced in the Colorado Legislature to amend and implement Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act that was passed by Colorado voters in November. There will be a public hearing on this bill tomorrow, April 20. If passed, SB23-290 would completely replace the NMHA.
Apr 13, 2023
Making psychedelic-assisted therapy and training opportunities accessible to historically and systematically oppressed populations is essential to creating a more equitable healthcare model. But how can this be achieved? Watch this webinar for a discussion on equity and psychedelics with professionals from Alchemy Community Therapy Center.
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!
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.
By Shane Pennington
Mar 1, 2023
How TGA's rescheduling of psilocybin and MDMA shines a bright light on DEA delinquency
Feb 23, 2023
Calling all cannabis and psychedelic industry professionals! RSVP to attend our private networking event and fundraiser during SXSW in Austin, co-hosted with Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency.
By Krissy Atterholt
Feb 14, 2023
Michigan leads the Midwest in affording its communities local protection for psychedelic-based activities. This article gives a breakdown of notable moments in Michigan's psychedelic legislative history.
Feb 9, 2023
What is microdosing and what does the path to legalizing responsible psychedelic use look like? Get the low-down from the Third Wave Podcast featuring Josh Kappel, Alli Schaper and Marie Mbouni, M.D.
By Yolanda Clarke and Jaime Greenwood
Feb 3, 2023
Colorado's Natural Medicine Health Act provides a path for responsible access to psychedelic natural medicines. If you're interested in the personal use of natural medicines in Colorado, read this article to find out what is and is not permitted.
Jan 12, 2023
As states like Oregon and Colorado develop regulated pathways for people to get involved in the regulated psychedelics industry, possibilities—and questions—are increasing: What are the opportunities now, what’s next, and where? Get answers by watching this recorded session.
Jan 10, 2023
Certain psychedelics were decriminalized in Colorado, now what? Join Chacruna’s Community Forum on January 18 for an in-depth discussion about the Natural Medicine Health Act.
Jan 6, 2023
"Can I start selling mushrooms in Colorado now?" Joshua Kappel answers your questions about Proposition 122 on the Psychedelics Passage podcast. Listen here!
Dec 23, 2022
On January 7, 2023, the VS team will provide legal services at a drug conviction record sealing clinic in Denver, Colorado.
By Yolanda Clarke, Jamie Greenwood
Nov 16, 2022
In another exciting step towards implementing psilocybin services, the Oregon Psilocybin Services Section issued updated proposed rules under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act this month, making significant changes to the previous iteration. Make your voices heard! The public comment period is open through November 21, 2022.
Nov 4, 2022
Josh Kappel recently discussed everything related to Proposition 122: The Natural Medicine Health Act with Higher Practice Podcast. Listen now!
Nov 1, 2022
The November 2022 ballot has those interested in cannabis and psychedelic policy reform on their toes. From supporting adult-use cannabis initiatives in Arkansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Maryland, to potential psychedelic reform in Colorado, there is plenty of excitement!
By Joshua Kappel and Tucker Wentz
Oct 11, 2022
Vicente Sederberg LLP is proud to stand with Natural Medicine Colorado and support Proposition 122. This measure not only provides safe access to natural psychedelic medicines, but does so in a way that is grounded in equity and conscious capitalism while also protecting legacy communities and existing medicine keepers.
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.
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.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Sep 9, 2022
Oregon Health Authority published the remaining draft rules to implement 'Measure 109' – the Oregon voter initiative passed in November 2020 which directed the OHA to license and regulate psilocybin products and the provision of psilocybin services. Read more about psilocybin licensing rules.
Sep 7, 2022
Don’t miss the Emergence Psychedelic Education Festival on October 1, 2022. The event will feature psychedelic practitioners and advocates, including VS’s Barine Majewska.
Aug 10, 2022
Josh Kappel will be featured in a legalization and regulation panel at the Psychedelic Law Summit hosted by InsidePractice, "Legalization or Regulation: Pathways to Psychedelic Access"
Aug 8, 2022
VS founding partner Joshua Kappel was a featured guest on a panel hosted by Into The Multiverse Podcast to discuss the history and future of psychedelic microdosing.
Jul 22, 2022
Joshua Kappel was interviewed by Psychedelica Lex to discuss his advocacy for the Colorado Natural Medicine Health Act, a measure on the Fall ballot.
Jul 22, 2022
It's official! Coloradans will have the chance to vote on a historic ballot initiative this year to legalize possession of certain psychedelics, establish a therapeutic model for supervised psilocybin treatment and provide a pathway for record sealing for prior convictions.
By Charlie Alovisetti, Genevieve Meehan, Josh Kappel
May 27, 2022
Do commercial opportunities for entrepreneurs exist in psychedelics? We explore the current limited legal pathways and potential opportunities via proposed legislation and ballot initiatives in this article.
Jan 19, 2022
Watch this live session on Thursday, January 27 at 12 p.m. MT to explore the latest in local and national psychedelics policy, with a focus on initiatives in Colorado and Denver.
Dec 13, 2021
Update on psychedelics-related legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy psychedelics news and events.
By Charles Alovisetti, Joshua Kappel, Andrea Golan
Dec 2, 2021
As we wait for federal legalization and/or state-regulated psilocybin markets to emerge, what can a motivated entrepreneur interested in mycelium pursue?
By Shane Pennington
Oct 18, 2021
An introduction to the different registrations available for schedule I substances such as psilocybin and psilocin.
By James Nechleba
Oct 6, 2021
How can mental health practitioners map the new territory of psychedelics use in mental health therapy and stay within Colorado law?
By Shane Pennington
Aug 9, 2021
In what could be a groundbreaking case for psychedelic medicine, VS counsel Shane Pennington is part of a team working on an exciting and very important Ninth Circuit challenge to the DEA's refusal to accommodate state and federal right to try laws.
By Barine Majewska
Aug 4, 2021
When we discuss inclusivity in the quickly emerging psychedelic industry, it is important to also acknowledge the inclusivity of different viewpoints about the administration of psychedelic medicine.
