Vicente LLP Tri-State Update: May 2024
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
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 Charles Alovisetti, Elena Markos
May 7, 2024
Maryland recently awarded cannabis business licenses to social equity applicants. If you were one of the lucky lottery winners, now it’s time to focus on raising money for your business. Read this insight for essential considerations around raising capital for Maryland social equity cannabis licensees.
By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Apr 4, 2024
The Maryland Cannabis Administration published proposed Emergency Regulations with significant changes, including requirements for proof of capitalization and new limitations on Management Agreements concerning branding and capping annual fees. Read this Insights article for the top things to know about the new regulations.
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
By Jason Tarasek, Yolanda Clarke
Mar 12, 2024
Minnesota lawmakers are proposing a bill to reshape the state's adult-use cannabis market, prioritizing social equity business applicants. The bill would grant social equity applicants a head start through temporary licenses allowing them to prepare for full licensure. This Insights post highlights social equity applicant criteria, limits on the total number of cannabis business licenses, and additional details to this recently introduced bill.
By David M. Ullian
Feb 26, 2024
Washington, D.C. will soon be accepting applications for new medical cannabis retail licenses. The application process is divided into two periods, with Social Equity Applicants getting priority and an earlier application window. This blog details the two available license types, eligibility requirements, and the application process. Additionally, it outlines new enforcement actions against unlicensed I-71 cannabis “gifting” businesses.
By David M. Ullian
Feb 13, 2024
Massachusetts launched the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund to aid qualified cannabis businesses disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition. Licensed businesses or applicants meeting specific criteria, like Social Equity Program participants, can access grants or loans (up to $50,000 now!). Apply online and learn more about future programs before the February 15th deadline.
By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Feb 7, 2024
Maryland's Cannabis Business Assistance Loan/Grant Fund is offering grants to help social equity applicants cover costs associated with obtaining a cannabis business license. The program reimburses up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $5,000. Applications open February 19th and close March 20th. Read this Insights post to learn more about eligibility, qualifying expenses, and how to apply.
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
By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 6, 2023
Maryland’s first adult-use licensing round is almost here! Do you have what you need? We’ve prepared a list to help guide you toward submission.The 30-day application period opens next week on November 13, 2023, at midnight ET and closes on December 12, 2023, at 5 p.m. ET.
By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 1, 2023
The clock is ticking—Maryland’s Social Equity Verification Portal will close on Tuesday, November 7. Have you completed your verification application? We recommend doing so as soon as possible to ensure that the Office of Social Equity has time to review your application and certify your social equity status.
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
By David Ullian
Oct 31, 2023
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s amended regulations make substantial changes to the current regulatory framework related to HCAs, Social Equity businesses, municipal equity, and agent suitability. These changes reveal a clear intent to make real progress towards achieving the goals of creating new opportunities and a level playing field for Social Equity businesses, and continuing to build a successful, equitable cannabis industry in Massachusetts. Read this article for an overview of the key provisions in the amended regulations.
By David M. Ullian
Oct 26, 2023
Washington, D.C. recently expanded its medical cannabis program to increase medical cannabis access for non-resident patients, update testing lab procedures, and expand social equity applicant criteria. Read this article for a summary of the expansion plus key business licensing application dates.
By Meg Nash
Oct 24, 2023
The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) recently released new information about the upcoming licensing round, including application instructions, an evaluation worksheet, and application templates. MCA also published an FAQ page. Read on for a summary of key information.
By Jason Tarasek
Oct 23, 2023
The Minnesota legislature has established three grant programs designed to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses and to create a more equitable cannabis industry. Read more about them in this Insights article.
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
By Meg Nash
Sep 8, 2023
The Maryland Cannabis Administration and its Office of Social Equity released information related to the upcoming social equity cannabis business licensing round, including timelines for application release, submission deadline and the number of licenses available per region and county.
By Yolanda Clarke, Meg Nash
Sep 1, 2023
The Maryland Cannabis Administration and its Office of Social Equity took another step toward the first round of adult-use social equity licensing in the state with the announcement that their social equity verification portal will go live on September 8. This first round of adult-use licensing will be for standard or micro grower, processor, and dispensary license types. Only social equity applicants are eligible to take part in this first round and to qualify, you must first be officially verified as a social equity applicant.
Aug 11, 2023
Vicente attorneys Jennifer Cabrera and Steve Pemberton are slated to speak about cannabis hospitality and entering New Jersey’s cannabis market during NECANN’s New Jersey Cannabis Conference from September 8-9, 2023 in Atlantic City. Read this post for more information.
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.
By Meg Nash
Jun 28, 2023
Rhode Island moves one step closer to implementing adult-use cannabis with the Senate confirmation of the state's Cannabis Control Commission. This Insight also delves into licensing, social equity applicant criteria, zoning restrictions, and newly released advertising guidelines for hybrid retailers.
May 10, 2023
Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Jeremy Shaw
Apr 26, 2023
Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Jennifer Cabrera
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.
Mar 22, 2023
So, you received your New Jersey cannabis business license. Now what? It’s time to get on the path to success as an operational and compliant cannabis dispensary. Watch this session from Vicente LLP for a regulatory update and compliance tips to help you thrive in this highly complex regulatory environment.
Mar 9, 2023
Watch this session to learn how cannabis regulations impact M&A transactions and financings in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.
Mar 6, 2023
Watch NHCC's "Current State of Cannabis in New Jersey" webinar on March 7 featuring Vicente partner Jennifer Cabrera and other cannabis industry professionals.
Feb 22, 2023
It's official: Vicente Sederberg LLP is now Vicente LLP. Take a look at our new logo and get to know the firm's largest-ever new partner class!
By Stephen Pemberton, Jennifer Cabrera
Jan 25, 2023
The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission recently published proposed regulations governing the operation of cannabis consumption areas and opened up the public comment period. Read our summary to get the low-down.
By Yolanda Clarke, Alex Solome
Jan 11, 2023
Illinois will hold another cannabis dispensary license round in early 2023 with a lower submission fee and a major focus on social equity requirements. Read this article to learn about the requirements and application deadlines. If you're interested in applying, VS's licensing team is ready to help you secure your future success.
By David Ullian, Jennifer Flanagan
Nov 2, 2022
This Bloomberg Law article by David Ullian and Jen Flanagan explores the evolution of the Massachusetts adult-use cannabis industry and how lawmakers, regulators, and industry advocates contributed to key recent legislative and regulatory developments.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Oct 5, 2022
VS counsel and National Hispanic Cannabis Council board member, Jennifer Cabrera, interviewed cannabis entrepreneur Ivelise Rivera in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Listen to the podcast to learn more about Ivelise and her journey.
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.
Sep 28, 2022
Casey Leaver will provide helpful tips for New Jersey cannabis businesses on a panel titled, “Compliance is Key: Best Practices for Your New Jersey Cannabis Business” at the Cannabis Quality Conference on October 18.
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 19, 2022
Massachusetts Legislature recently voted to pass marijuana reform legislation that will impact the cannabis industry in significant ways, particularly with respect to social equity. Watch this for an overview of the new law and insights into how it might impact your business.
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.
By David M. Ullian, Jennifer Flanagan, Justin Hunt
Aug 11, 2022
Massachusetts Legislature voted to pass marijuana reform legislation that will impact the cannabis industry, particularly in terms of social equity businesses. Read more about how Massachusetts' new enactment may affect your cannabis business.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Kate Monroe, Bridgette Nikisher, Steve Pemberton
Aug 2, 2022
New Jersey's CRC released proposed cannabis regulations that implement the CREAM Act and include rules for wholesalers, distributors, and delivery services, and include a new restriction on license ownership among family members. Read this article for highlights and reach out to our NJ team for a copy of the full summary.
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.
Jul 21, 2022
Congratulations to the VS attorneys selected to the 2022 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists in Massachusetts and New York!
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Apr 15, 2022
Kim Napoli was recognized by her peers during the 2022 NECANN Conference Community Awards
Apr 11, 2022
VS counsel Jennifer Cabrera will join the New Jersey State Bar Association for the 2022 NJICLE Real Estate Conference on April 13, 2022 in New Brunswick. She will present on the session "Cannabis and Real Estate" with attorney Jack Fersko.
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.
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.
Mar 16, 2022
VS attorney Jennifer Cabrera will join the Black Cannabis Equity Initiative's next virtual roundtable on March 22 to discuss cannabis in New Jersey.
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.
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.
Feb 16, 2022
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, current business owner, or looking to start a new career in the cannabis industry, this webinar series will provide a comprehensive overview of the Connecticut adult-use cannabis licensing process, including how to qualify as a social equity applicant.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Feb 16, 2022
The law is intended to accelerate the cultivation, processing, and distribution of cannabis in New York.
Feb 14, 2022
Join the Black Cannabis Equity Initiative on Thursday, February 24, 2022 from 3 - 5 p.m. MT for a national social equity roundtable discussion on challenges, choices, and opportunities: "Women of Color in the Cannabis Industry."
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.
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!
Jan 11, 2022
Watch this session for a look back at 2021 tri-state cannabis developments and a look forward to expectations for 2022.
Jan 5, 2022
Watch the NHCC's inaugural legal committee round table, featuring Jennifer Cabrera and Jerrico Perez discussing legal and policy topics related to Hispanics and the cannabis industry.
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.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera, Brandon Kurtzman
Nov 10, 2021
Eight months after New Jersey’s Governor signed the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act into law, we now have an application timeline for adult-use cannabis licenses.
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 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.
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!
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.
Sep 8, 2021
Black Cannabis Equity Initiative will host a special social equity community round table discussion with NJ and national cannabis leaders, including VS's Brian Vicente and Jennifer Cabrera, on September 10.
Aug 26, 2021
Watch this session for a dive into key elements of the regulations and an engaging discussion with special guests from the NJ CannaBusiness Association, the NJ League of Municipalities, and the US Cannabis Council.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Heather Kumer, Michelle Bodian, Steve Pemberton, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 24, 2021
Read this summary to find out what is included, what was left out, and what is noteworthy in New Jersey's recently released cannabis rules.
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.
Aug 5, 2021
VS counsel Jennifer Cabrera provided an update on the cannabis industry in New Jersey at the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants Conference.
Jul 29, 2021
John Bailey of BCEI will host a community event in Princeton, New Jersey featuring local officials, community development experts, and cannabis industry leaders in August 2021.
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.
Jul 6, 2021
VS counsel Jennifer Cabrera will join NJSBA for the CLE "Interstate Commerce of Cannabis: The Impact and Aftermath of Siloed Markets"
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.
Jun 24, 2021
Local leaders in New Jersey learned about municipal cannabis policy, land use, and zoning from VS in a recent working session.
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 4, 2021
NJCI Live: Focus on Municipalities, held on June 8-19, 2021, will dive into municipal issues for cannabis in New Jersey, including zoning, buildings, licensing, and jobs.
Jun 4, 2021
VS counsel Heather Kumer will participate in the panel "What the Zone? Cannabis in NJ and the Transition to Adult Use" with New Jersey cannabis leaders on June 10, 2021.
May 5, 2021
Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.
By Brian Vicente
Apr 19, 2021
The cannabis industry is complex. Prospective cannabis business owners and other service providers interested in working with cannabis businesses are wise to take a step back and assess what it really takes to not only enter the cannabis industry, but to succeed in it.
Apr 15, 2021
Black Cannabis Equity Initiative and Minorities for Medial Marijuana will host a National Social Equity meeting on April 19, 2021
Apr 7, 2021
Launched March 25, 2021, the NHCC aims to empower the U.S. Hispanic community through education, entrepreneurialism, and economic opportunity. Brian Vicente, Jennifer Cabrera, and Fatima Thibou will sit on the Board of Directors.
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.
By Charles Alovisetti, Jennifer Cabrera
Mar 25, 2021
Using New Jersey as an example, here are eight important considerations companies should make when expanding into new cannabis markets.
Mar 22, 2021
VS counsel Jennifer Cabrera will participate in a panel on April 8, 2021.
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.
Mar 5, 2021
NJCI Live will offer a deep dive into the current landscape of cannabis in New Jersey and best business practices in all areas of the industry.
Feb 26, 2021
VS's director of economics and research featured on Episode 346 - Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!
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.
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 14, 2021
Watch this presentation with Amanda Kilroe, Jeffrey Welsh, and Yolanda Clarke for top tips on how to succeed in the competitive marijuana business industry.
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.
Dec 22, 2020
VS is honored to receive the Black Cannabis Equity Initiative’s Beacon of Light Award for "leading the way” on social equity issues in Colorado’s cannabis industry.
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg attorneys wrote the book on cannabis law — and now you can own it! This comprehensive primer on all things cannabis law is a must-have for anyone seeking to understand the major practical legal issues facing the marijuana and hemp industries.
Nov 19, 2020
Watch this session for an informed look at the opportunities and other realities of operating in the cannabis industry post-election.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Oct 27, 2020
This November 3, in addition to presidential and congressional elections that will have a major impact, five states have ballot measures that will legalize marijuana in some form. New Jersey is one of those states.
Sep 17, 2020
Blizzy Magazine, a new publication targeting the African American cannabis consumer, recently recognized VS attorneys Christian Sederberg and Jordan Wellington in the magazine’s inaugural list of “Top Social Equity Cannabis Power Players.”
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.
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.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Counsel; Michelle Bodian, Senior Associate
Feb 6, 2020
A summary of New Jersey's USDA-approved hemp regulations and licensing program.
Nov 4, 2019
VS Counsel Jennifer Cabrera will lead a New Jersey cannabis workshop at Union County College on November 7, 2019.
Sep 10, 2019
VS attorney Jennifer Cabrera will present at the first annual New Jersey Cannabis Convention.
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.
By Charles Alovisetti, Partner; Jennifer Cabrera, Counsel; and Sahar Ayinehsazian, Associate Attorney
Aug 2, 2019
Here's a look into New Jersey Assembly Bill 20, which, once implemented, will greatly expand patients’ access to medical cannabis.
Jun 20, 2019
Jennifer Cabrera will lead a cannabis workshop at Union County College in Cranford, NJ on June 27, 2019.