Texas Consumable Hemp Program Rules Are Under Review

By Daniel Molina, Shawn Hauser
Apr 9, 2024

Every four years, Texas agencies must review adopted rules and that time has come for the Lone Star State's Consumable Hemp Program. As businesses and consumers navigate the Texas hemp market, it's important to understand the rules, rulemaking process, and impending deadlines. If you participate in Texas' booming hemp market, now is the time to make your voices heard as the comment period for this rule review is open through April 22, 2024.

New Year, New Rules: Updated Oregon Psilocybin Services Regulations Now in Effect

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.

Colorado Marijuana Rulemaking Is Underway

By Genevieve Meehan
Jul 24, 2023

The 2023 rulemaking process will run through the fall and address a wide range of topics, including marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, and testing standards; fee increases; regulatory efficiency; implementation of legislation enacted earlier this year; intoxicating hemp; and hospitality.

Forming Psychedelic Companies: 10 Lessons from the Cannabis Industry

By Charles Alovisetti
Mar 22, 2023

A new industry is emerging in the United States, and entrepreneurs in the psychedelics space must make critical decisions at the onset of new ventures regarding how to set up and structure their new businesses. Luckily, we have access to another industry with a complex legal framework and a patchwork of different state laws: cannabis. And after forming hundreds of cannabis companies with clients over the past decade, Vicente LLP has lessons to be shared.

Michelle Bodian Will Discuss Connecticut Cannabis Licensing and Regulatory Updates at Xpocanna Cannabis Convention

Mar 15, 2023

Are you ready to jump into the Connecticut cannabis market? Attend this Xpocanna session with Vicente partner Michelle Bodian on March 25 for reflections on the Nutmeg State’s 2022 licensing lottery process, guidance for applying in 2023, and insight into what’s might be coming during this year from the legislature, Dept of Consumer Protection, and the Social Equity Council.

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.

Regulating Intoxicating Hemp Products: Recent Reports and Recommendations from Vermont, Maryland, Virginia and Oregon

By Sam Kovach-Orr
Jan 23, 2023

Vermont, Maryland, Virginia, Oregon, and Colorado recently issued reports containing policy recommendations relating to intoxicating hemp-derived products.

Marc Ross Discusses the Importance of ESG Management for Cannabis Companies on Sustainable Minds Podcast

Dec 20, 2022

Marc Ross recently spoke on the Sustainable Minds: Exploring ESG and Corporate Brand podcast about the importance of ESG management at cannabis companies, his experience in the cannabis industry and more!

New York's Draft Cannabis Regulations: 10 Key Aspects that Will Impact the Market

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.

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Now Allows Pesticide Use on Marijuana Plants

By Michelle Bodian, Casey Leaver
Dec 2, 2022

In an important policy change affecting Massachusetts marijuana operators, MDAR now allows the use of pesticides on marijuana plants, provided conditions are met.

How to Run a Cannabis Dispensary in New York: Guidance for New York Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries

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."

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

Oct 14, 2022

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

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

By Marc Ross
Oct 11, 2022

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

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

Sep 21, 2022

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

The ESG Threat by Shareholders and Proxy Challenges

By Marc Ross
Sep 7, 2022

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

Cannabis Reform in Massachusetts a Win-Win for Industry, State

By Jennifer Flanagan
Aug 26, 2022

Jennifer Flanagan writes for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, reflecting on the Commonwealth's first major cannabis reform legislation since Massachusetts established a regulated adult-use cannabis market.

Charles Alovisetti to speak on Cannabis & Regulations in New York City

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!

Why It’s Crucial for New York Cannabis Entrepreneurs to Communicate with Government Officials

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.

Recap: Cannabis Regulators Association External Stakeholders Meeting

By Jen Flanagan
Jun 16, 2022

CANNRA recently convened the first-ever External Stakeholders Meeting in Seattle, Washington. VS's Jen Flanagan recalls her experience at the event in this blog post.

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

By Marc Ross
Jun 7, 2022

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

Vicente Sederberg Releases 2021 Impact Report, Celebrates Commitment to Community

Jun 1, 2022

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

Cannalaw Summit 2022 Will Feature Vicente Sederberg Attorneys

Apr 25, 2022

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

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

Apr 21, 2022

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

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

Apr 15, 2022

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

VS Client Spotlight Series: Devin Alexander of Rolling Releaf

Apr 11, 2022

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

Cultivating Cannabis Industry Relationships: 7 Tips for Effective Communications with Public Officials

By Jen Flanagan
Mar 9, 2022

Utilizing these tips can make a world of difference in your interaction with local and state governments.

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.

VS Client Spotlight Series: Bryan Murray of Acreage Holdings

Feb 22, 2022

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

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

Feb 17, 2022

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

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

By Marc Ross
Feb 8, 2022

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

Cannabis State Regulatory Agencies

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.

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

Jan 25, 2022

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

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

Dec 27, 2021

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

Vicente Sederberg LLP Entheogens Update: December 2021

Dec 13, 2021

Update on psychedelics-related legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy psychedelics news and events.

Join VS at NCIA's Cannabis Business Summit and CannaVest West Investor Forum

Nov 19, 2021

VS attorneys Charlie Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian, and Marc Ross are slated to present at the event in San Francisco, December 16-17, 2021. Be our guest! Use discount code SBrody100 for a complimentary pass to the forum and expo.

ABA Global Business of Cannabis Conference is Coming to Denver

Nov 9, 2021

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

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

Nov 9, 2021

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

Marc Ross Slated to Speak at Legal ESG Summit

Oct 14, 2021

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

[Webinar] Growing Greener: Navigating Environmental Laws

Sep 22, 2021

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

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

Sep 20, 2021

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

Jennifer Flanagan to Speak at Vermont Dept. of Health Youth Cannabis Policy Conference

Sep 17, 2021

Based on lessons learned from other New England states and exploring Vermont’s own legislation for a legal retail market, keynote presentations, panels and workshops will provide an opportunity to explore community-based education, policy development, youth messaging and other topics to implement at the regional or local level.

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

Sep 16, 2021

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

The Cannabis Industry’s Environmental Compliance Conundrum

By Marc Ross
Sep 14, 2021

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

VS Team Slated to Speak on Three Panels at NECANN Boston's 6th Annual New England Cannabis Convention

Sep 2, 2021

Don't miss these ESG, hemp, and compliance-focused panels with the Vicente Sederberg team at NECANN Boston cannabis conference on September 10-11, 2021.

Michelle Bodian Featured in INCBA CLE: Hemp 301

Aug 20, 2021

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

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

Aug 6, 2021

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

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

Jul 27, 2021

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

National Hemp Month Spotlight: Hemp Paper and Plastics

By Jace Pohlman, Law Clerk
Jul 23, 2021

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

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

Jul 6, 2021

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

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

Jul 2, 2021

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

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

By Marc A. Ross
Jun 30, 2021

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

[Webinar] Impact and ESG in the Cannabis Industry

Jun 15, 2021

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