Cannabis Business Licensing Opportunities in Southern California

By Emily Hackman, Ashley Davies
Sep 12, 2023

Cannabis storefront retail and microbusiness license opportunities in Southern California have largely been few and far between. However, the City of Redondo Beach and the City of Santee are two great opportunities to expand or establish a foothold in the Southern California cannabis retail market. Read this article for a summary of the current status of each jurisdiction's application and licensing process.

[Webinar] Asset-Light Strategies to Boost Cannabis Business Growth

Apr 27, 2023

Attend this Vicente LLP session to learn about how asset-light business models can help expand your business and bring products to market faster and with less capital.

Cannabis Crossing State Lines: California Dept. of Cannabis Control Pushes for Interstate Commerce

By Cassia Furman, Jason Adelstone
Feb 24, 2023

A bill passed in 2022 authorized California to enter into agreements with neighboring states allowing for interstate transfers between cannabis licensees, so long as the cannabis products don’t pass through a non-legal state. Could this be implemented? What are the risks?

CBD Products Liability Lawsuits Could Be Revived After FDA Declines to Regulate Cannabidiol

By Catie Wightman
Feb 13, 2023

In recent years, several CBD companies faced product liability lawsuits brought by consumers. Many of these cases were dismissed without prejudice or stayed until the FDA takes action to regulate CBD products. Now that the FDA said it will not take action to regulate CBD, could these cases be revived?

Recommending CBD and Hemp Products for Pets: Legal Considerations for Veterinarians

By Catie Wightman
Feb 9, 2023

With recent announcements from the FDA pushing CBD and hemp-derived products further into a legal gray area, can veterinarians recommend or sell these products for pets?

5 Things to Know About New California Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Regulations, Inhalable Products, and Recycling Claims in 2023 and Beyond

By Andrea Golan
Jan 25, 2023

At the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, several notable changes in California cannabis law took effect. In this article, we compiled five key regulatory changes impacting cannabis packaging and labeling, recyclability claims, and inhalable cannabis products.

10 Key Takeaways from the Colorado Intoxicating Hemp Task Force Final Report

By Catie Wightman
Jan 17, 2023

The SB 22-205 Intoxicating Hemp Task Force's final report makes legislative and rule recommendations concerning the regulation of intoxicating and synthetic hemp products in Colorado. We compiled 10 key takeaways for hemp industry stakeholders.

Recommending Cannabis for Pets: Legal Considerations for Veterinarians

By Catie Wightman
Jan 3, 2023

In this two-part VS Insights series, we discuss the potential legal implications for veterinarians to consider regarding cannabis and hemp products. This first article focuses on cannabis products, while part two focuses on hemp and hemp-derived products.

[Webinar] Intoxicating Hemp Regulations: Where We Are and What's to Come

Dec 15, 2022

Watch as Vicente Sederberg LLP and EARTH Law LLC discuss the regulatory approaches for intoxicating hemp in Colorado, Oregon and California, and our projections for the future

Habeeb Syed to Discuss Legal Considerations in Cryptocurrency at 2022 IDEAS Global A.I. Conference

Dec 7, 2022

Join Habeeb Syed on December 16 for a panel titled, "Legal Considerations for Launching Your Blockchain, NFT, or Crypto Project," at the IDEAS Global A.I. Conference.

Recent FDA Enforcement Letters Signal Increased FDA Scrutiny of Hemp Products

By Catie Wightman, Michelle Bodian
Nov 30, 2022

On November 21, 2022, the FDA issued five warning letters to companies selling CBD, Delta-8, and other hemp products for humans and pets.

[Webinar] California Cannabis Regulatory Update

Nov 9, 2022

Watch this recorded session to learn about California's latest cannabis rule changes and how to comply.

Guide for Shipping Hemp and Hemp-Derived CBD Products

By Michelle Bodian, Catie Wightman
Nov 1, 2022

Planning to ship hemp or hemp-derived CBD products? Read this first.

Lessons Learned from the Regulation of CBD Products in the United Kingdom

By Shawn Hauser, Catie Wightman, Ariane Beckman
Sep 20, 2022

Like the US, regulators in the UK are struggling to find ways to best regulate CBD and other hemp-derived products—frustrating hemp businesses across the globe. Read this VS Insights article to learn how the UK is currently regulating CBD and key findings and recommendations from the ACMD's Consumer CBD Products Report.

California Expands Proposition 65 Warning Language for Exposure to Cannabis Smoke and Delta-9 THC

By Andrea Golan
Aug 22, 2022

California OEHHA adopted new regulations which include new non-mandatory Proposition 65 warning language for products that can expose consumers to cannabis smoke or delta-9-THC.

Best Lawyers® Recognizes 14 Attorneys From Vicente Sederberg LLP for Work in Cannabis Law, Corporate Law, and Additional Practice Areas

Aug 19, 2022

VS is pleased to announce that 14 attorneys from national cannabis law firm Vicente Sederberg LLP (VS) were recognized this week by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession.

FDA Enforcement Continues Against Companies Making CBD Product Claims

By Catie Wightman, Ariane Beckman
Aug 11, 2022

The FDA is cracking down on companies making unlawful drug or disease claims about their products relating to CBD by recently issuing several warning letters to address these compliance violations.

Gov. Newsom’s Budget Trailer Bill Makes Significant Reforms to California Cannabis Laws, Including Elimination of the Cannabis Cultivation Tax

By Andrea Golan
Jul 11, 2022

California cannabis cultivation tax was eliminated, along with additional significant reforms to Golden State cannabis laws. Read this article for noteworthy changes from Gov. Newsom's recently-signed budget trailer bill.

Vicente Sederberg Receives Top Ranking from Chambers and Partners for Fourth Straight Year

Jul 6, 2022

VS is excited to announce that the prestigious international legal directory Chambers & Partners awarded VS with the 'Cannabis Law Firm of the Year' award once again, extended VS a Band 1 ranking for the fourth straight year, and recognized five VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.

California Publishes IHEO and Registration Applications for Hemp Product Manufacturers

By Andrea Golan
Jul 6, 2022

CDPH published Industrial Hemp Enrollment and Oversight Authorization and registration for each hemp product type.

Key Takeaways from Intoxicating Cannabinoids: The Science and the Law Webinar

By Catie Wightman, Shawn Hauser
Jun 16, 2022

We recently hosted a webinar exploring intoxicating hemp-derived products. Read this for key takeaways from the session.

California AB-45 Update! CDPH Publishes Proposed Emergency Regulations and FAQ Update for Hemp Manufacturers

By Andrea Golan
May 6, 2022

CDPH published proposed emergency regulations detailing the registration requirements and annual fees for manufacturers of hemp extract and hemp products. CDPH is accepting public comments through May 31, 2022.

FDA Enforcement Action Targeted at Hemp-Derived Delta-8 Products

By Michelle Bodian, Shawn Hauser, Catie Wightman
May 5, 2022

For the first time ever, the FDA issued warning letters to companies selling products containing hemp-derived Delta-8 THC. Notably, this is the first time the FDA has specifically enforced against Delta-8 products. Read this for key takeaways from these warning letters.

Cassia Furman Slated to Present at PLI's Cannabis Business Fundamentals 2022 Event

Apr 8, 2022

Cassia will join the panel "The Current Legal Cannabis Landscape: An Overview and Comparative Study" on April 12 at 9:15 a.m.

Genevieve Meehan to Moderate Cannabis Packaging Regulations Session at CannPack 2022

Apr 8, 2022

Don't miss the panel next week at the Cannabis Packaging Conference (CannPack) in Anaheim, California.

[Webinar] Minor Cannabinoids & Trending Topics in Hemp

Apr 1, 2022

Watch this session exploring trending topics in hemp. During the session, members of our hemp team dive into the legality, regulation, and lawsuits surrounding minor cannabinoids, current federal hemp legislation, and what we expect and hope to see in the 2023 Farm Bill.

California Department of Cannabis Control Releases New Proposed Regulations Today

By Andrea Golan
Mar 4, 2022

DCC unveiled its proposed changes to the cannabis regulations in a public meeting on March 3, 2022. The proposed rules are expected to be published today. VS will analyze the full text once the proposed regulations are released—so stay tuned for further updates.

Hemp States to Watch in 2022: California

By David Kramer
Feb 7, 2022

California is hoping that this will be the year that its hemp industry emerges from the shadows and takes its place among the nation's hemp leaders. Read this article for an outline of what hemp operators should expect from the CDPH and California's hemp program in the coming months.

5 Resolutions for Your California Cannabis Business

By Genevieve Meehan, Emily Hackman, Andrea Golan, Amanda Kilroe
Jan 14, 2022

Our team compiled a list of five resolutions to ensure your California cannabis business is focused on operational compliance for years to come.

2014 Farm Bill Expiration: What Does it Mean for State Hemp Programs?

By Michelle Bodian, Catie Wightman
Dec 17, 2021

After several extensions, the 2014 Farm Bill is finally set to expire on Dec. 31. What's next for state hemp programs and what are the 2018 Farm Bill's notable requirements?

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.

[Webinar] Spotlight on Colorado's Cannabis Market

Oct 19, 2021

Watch this recorded session for an update on recent changes in the Colorado market from members of our Colorado regulatory, corporate, and hemp teams and special guest Christopher Stefan of Cannabis Capital Advisors.

Charles Alovisetti and Amanda Kilroe Interviewed for Columbia Law Alumni Cannabis Article

Oct 11, 2021

The spread of legalization means a growing practice area for law firms. Two VS Columbia Law alumni were interviewed in this article.

Cassia Furman to Join LACBA to Review New California Dept. of Cannabis Control Regulations

Oct 11, 2021

VS partner Cassia Furman will join the LA County Bar Association on October 14, 2021 to review the adopted rules and critically engage with the new regulatory landscape.

California Department of Cannabis Control Files Emergency Rules

By Cassia Furman, Andrea Golan, Genevieve Meehan
Oct 7, 2021

DCC filed emergency rules for cannabis operators. Read this VS Insight for the need-to-know changes and information on submitting a public comment.

California Now Permits the Manufacture and Retail Sale of Hemp-Derived Products — Including CBD

By Andrea Golan, David Kramer
Oct 6, 2021

California AB-45 was signed into law by Governor Newsom, finally putting the California Department of Public Health’s infamous July 2018 FAQ in the rearview mirror—meaning foods, beverages, dietary supplements, pet products, and cosmetics containing CBD can be sold under California state law!

VS is Headed to Las Vegas for the Biggest Cannabis Event of the Year — MJBizCon!

Oct 5, 2021

We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!

The End of an Era: California Cannabis Provisional Licensing, a New State Regime, and CEQA

By Emily Hackman
Sep 9, 2021

In the first post of a three-part series focused on California cannabis, we will highlight the impact of the 2021 Budget Trailer Bill and the upcoming end of provisional licensing on California cannabis operators, as well as strategies to reduce delays in new license issuance and annual license transitions.

'Planted' With Sara Payan Cannabis Podcast Features Jeffrey Welsh in Episode 33

Aug 2, 2021

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh recently sat down with host Sara Payan for a conversation about cannabis policy across the U.S., the intersection of entertainment and cannabis, and his music.

NAACP to Host Free Expungement Clinic with The Color of Cannabis and Vicente Sederberg LLP

Jul 22, 2021

VS's Jason Adelstone, Catie Wightman and Genevieve Meehan will participate in a free expungement clinic to be held on July 31, 2021 in Denver.

California Trailer Bill Update: Impact on Cannabis Businesses

Jul 22, 2021

Gov. Newsom signed the Cannabis Trailer Bill on July 12, creating the Department of Cannabis Control. Read this for an overview of the most significant provisions of the trailer bill impacting the cannabis industry.

Federal and State Overview: Regulation of Products Containing 'Minor' Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids

By Catie Wightman, Jace Pohlman
Jul 13, 2021

Move over CBD; there are new cannabinoids in town. CBD has been the most sought-after and utilized hemp-derived cannabinoid in consumer products, but due in part to technological advances, various other hemp-derived cannabinoids, like CBG, CBN, and CBC, are now creating a well-deserved buzz.

New Hemp CBD Laws, Regulations, and Policies: June 2021 Update

By Caitlin Wightman, Michelle Bodian, Jace Pohlman
Jun 15, 2021

Over the first half of 2021, many states passed laws, implemented, or proposed new regulations regarding hemp cultivation, processing, and CBD products. These changes range from updates to testing, labeling, and packaging requirements, to adjustments in license requirements and limits on the types of hemp-derived products that can be sold. 

Vicente Sederberg Once Again Ranked Top Cannabis Law Firm by Chambers and Partners

Jun 8, 2021

The prestigious international legal directory awarded VS with the 2021 'Cannabis Law - Law Firm of the Year' award, once again extended VS a Band 1 ranking, and recognized two more VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.

[Webinar] East Coast vs. West Coast Cannabis Licensing

May 5, 2021

Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.

Coronavirus and Cannabis: Monitoring the Impact

Mar 29, 2021

Vicente Sederberg is monitoring local, state, and federal responses to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how they may impact cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers.

Proposed Changes to Prop 65 ‘Short-Form’ Warning Option: What Cannabis and Hemp Operators Need to Know

By Andrea Golan
Mar 17, 2021

On January 8, 2021, OEHHA proposed significant changes to its Prop 65 short form warning requirements. Public comments on the proposed changes can be submitted through March 29, 2021.

To Be Blunt Podcast for Cannabis Marketers Interviews Jeffrey Welsh on the State of California Cannabis

Dec 30, 2020

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh discussed the state of cannabis in California with To Be Blunt: The Podcast for Cannabis Marketers.

California Cannabis Update: December 2020

Dec 23, 2020

Updates on proposed reforms, 2021 cannabis and hemp bills, new metrc restrictions, and branded merchandise guidance.

5 Key Takeaways from the FTC CBDeceit Crackdown on CBD Businesses

By Caitlin Wightman, Michelle Bodian
Dec 23, 2020

On December 17, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission announced robust enforcement actions against companies making deceptive claims about CBD and CBG products.

Jeffrey Welsh Featured on University of Hartford 'On the Air' Alumni Podcast

Dec 16, 2020

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh discusses his path from professional saxophonist to cannabis lawyer.

Ten Events That Shaped the California Cannabis Industry

By Christina Sava
Dec 11, 2020

A brief history of cannabis regulation in The Golden State over the last decade.

Navigating The California Cannabis Marketplace with Jeffrey Welsh on Cannabis Radio's Blunt Business Podcast

Dec 7, 2020

In this interview, Jeffrey discusses the California cannabis industry, including the role of entertainers and celebrities in cannabis.

California Court Rules BCC Exceeded Authority by Allowing Advertising Near Highways

By Kelsey Middleton
Dec 2, 2020

A recent ruling determined that the Bureau of Cannabis Control exceeded its rulemaking authority by allowing any advertising to be seen on interstate highways and state highways crossing the California border.

Celebrating 10 Years at the Leading Edge of Cannabis Law

By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 1, 2020

For our 10th anniversary, we take a look back at VS's history of leadership in cannabis law, the marijuana and hemp industries, and drug policy reform.

Vicente Sederberg LLP Hemp Update: November 2020

Nov 25, 2020

Update on hemp legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.

California BCC Amends Regulations Regarding Owner Conviction History

By Christina Sava, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 24, 2020

California Bureau of Cannabis Control issued proposed amendments in response to AB 2138 that would remove licensure barriers for Californians with past criminal convictions.

Where Did Cannabis Ballot Measures Win in California on Election Day 2020?

By Andrea Golan, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 18, 2020

On Election Day 2020, Californians voted on a remarkable number of cannabis-related ballot measures—39 to be exact. Of those, only six were rejected by voters.

Selling CBD Products Online? State Retailer Registration Requirements May Apply

By Catie Wightman
Nov 16, 2020

If you are selling CBD products—even products sold exclusively online—you must follow retailer requirements in the states where you sell products (i.e., where your customers are located).

Lit & Lucid Podcast: Creating a Future in Cannabis with Jeffrey Welsh

Nov 13, 2020

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh was recently a guest on the Lit & Lucid podcast. Listen here!

Jeffrey Welsh Discusses Cannabis Business Issues with Thinking Outside the Bud

Nov 2, 2020

Jeffrey Welsh recently chatted with host Bruce Eckfeldt about his work in cannabis and entertainment law, as well as cannabis branding and more.

California Proposition 65 Warning Requirements Effective January 3, 2021

By Andrea Golan
Oct 1, 2020

If you sell products to California consumers that contain delta-9 THC or that can expose individuals to cannabis smoke, those products require a Proposition 65 warning.

Leasing Due Diligence Checklist for California Cannabis Businesses

By Christina Sava
Sep 10, 2020

Attention cannabis business owners! Don't forget to do your due diligence before leasing a space for your operations.

Sahar Ayinehsazian to Discuss Cannabis Banking at DRI Virtual Seminar

Sep 3, 2020

Sahar will present "Curbing Cannabis Cash" at DRI's Cannabis Law Virtual Seminar on September 17, 2020.

Andrea Golan to Present Hemp and CBD MCLE for Alameda County Bar Association

Sep 3, 2020

Andrea will present "What Attorneys Should Know About the Legal Status of Hemp and CBD Products in California and Beyond" on September 15, 2020.

California Cannabis Business Preparedness Resources for Wildfires, Power Outages and Remote Audits

By Genevieve Meehan, Christina Sava
Aug 28, 2020

Helpful resources for California cannabis businesses regarding wildfires, power outages, and remote agency audits due to COVID-19.

Coronavirus and Cannabis: California Regulatory Updates

By Andrea, Golan, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Tim Long, Christina Sava, Kelsey Middleton
Aug 27, 2020

Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in California.

Sahar Ayinehsazian Talks Cannabis Banking on Hashtag Finance Podcast with Barrington Miller

Jul 9, 2020

VS attorney Sahar Ayinehsazian discusses cannabis industry banking and the many reasons why there is a demand for cannabis legal advice during the COVID-19 pandemic on CSE's Hashtag Finance podcast.

[Webinar] California Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Compliance

Jul 1, 2020

Learn best practices for California cannabis packaging and labeling, common mistakes to avoid, tips for new product launches, and much more from members of VS's licensing and compliance teams.

Jeffrey Welsh Talks Entertainment and Cannabis on Let's Be Blunt with Montel

Jun 25, 2020

VS partner Jeffrey Welsh talks about normalizing cannabis, social equity in the cannabis industry, CBD, and the effects of COVID-19 in this interview with Montel Williams.

Vicente Sederberg Ranked Top Cannabis Law Firm by Chambers and Partners

Apr 23, 2020

The prestigious international legal directory once again gave VS a Nationwide Band 1 ranking, and this time around it also individually ranked three of the firm's partners.

A Closer Look at California COVID-19 Relief Programs

By Andrea A. Golan and Kelsey Middleton
Apr 22, 2020

Coronavirus and Cannabis: Hemp Industry Updates

Apr 17, 2020

Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on hemp businesses, service providers, and consumers.

Prop 65 Warning Requirements for Cannabis, THC and CBD

By Andrea A. Golan
Apr 13, 2020

In early 2020, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment added Δ9 THC and marijuana smoke to the Proposition 65 list of chemicals known as reproductive toxins. What does this mean for cannabis businesses?

[Webinar] Coronavirus and Cannabis: Coast-to-Coast Regulatory Update

Mar 27, 2020

Watch the replay of this timely discussion on coronavirus (COVID-19) regulatory updates affecting the cannabis industry.

Responding to COVID-19: Vicente Sederberg LLP Is Here to Help

Mar 16, 2020

VS is open for business and communicating with regulators to help answer your questions.

California and the Gig Economy: The Fight Over AB-5

By David Kramer, Senior Associate
Mar 3, 2020

California employers beware: as of January 1, 2020, it is increasingly likely that any person who performs services for your company will be classified as an employee. The reason for this seismic shift is Assembly Bill 5 (AB-5).

VS Attorneys Discuss the Cannabis Industry with Business of Cannabis

Jan 22, 2020

VS attorneys Charles Alovisetti and Sahar Ayinehsazian sat down in Business of Cannabis's Canada's Scene Booth at MJBizCon 2019 to discuss the state of the cannabis industry.

California Provides Tax Relief for Cannabis Businesses

By Tim Long, Counsel
Dec 9, 2019

With the passing of Assembly Bill 37, legal cannabis businesses can now take advantage of more state tax deductions in California.

VS Expands California Operations with Addition of Frontera Law Group Founders

Dec 4, 2019

Vicente Sederberg is thrilled to announce that leading California cannabis business attorneys Luke K. Stanton and Jeffrey D. Welsh have joined the firm as partners!

What’s Happening in the World of California Hemp?

By David Kramer, Associate Attorney
Jun 21, 2019

A number of hemp bills are passing through the California legislature. VS Attorney David Kramer dives deeper into AB-228 and SB-153.