Crafting effective marijuana and hemp laws and regulations requires specialized knowledge that few governmental entities possess. Vicente Sederberg LLP has been working at the intersection of cannabis, law, and commerce for over a decade, and we are uniquely qualified to assist local, state, and national governments with their cannabis policy and economics needs.
VS provides a full suite of legal and advisory services to assist governmental bodies with the development and implementation of laws and regulations governing medical cannabis, adult-use cannabis, and hemp, with a focus on public health and safety objectives and efficient administration. We also have an in-house Economics & Research department, which uses policy research and proprietary projection models rooted in economic theory and statistical analysis to inform regulatory policymaking across all sectors of the cannabis market.
As a leader in the cannabis policy and business communities, VS has been intimately involved in shaping marijuana and hemp laws and regulations, as well as standards and best practices for the industry. We have extensive experience identifying core legal and regulatory issues and crafting solutions that balance competing concerns and are still effective in practice. We understand where and how laws are working and how they can be improved upon, and we work with public sector clients to produce policies that are mindful of potential compliance, implementation, and enforcement issues.
Select a category below to learn more about our government and policy services.
Because each government and community is unique, our services are tailored to the individual needs of each public-sector client. We offer comprehensive guidance on a wide variety of subjects, including:
We work collaboratively with stakeholders to identify the broad range of interests that exist and to create policies that match the desires of your administration and the needs of your community. Depending on your specific needs, our assistance can be limited to providing recommendations or comments on a single draft or existing policy, or it may cover the entire drafting process from planning to passage, with ongoing advisory, analytical, and drafting services.
Our analytical services are customized to meet the individual needs of each public-sector client and provide a data-driven basis for their marijuana policy decisions. We provide a wide range of market, policy, economic, financial, and statistical research, including:
VS was founded in Colorado in 2010, and its founding partners played a key role in the state's establishment of the nation's first regulated medical cannabis market. Attorneys at VS then led the drafting of Amendment 64, which established Colorado's adult-use cannabis market; served on the governor’s Amendment 64 Implementation Task Force; and chaired many of the Marijuana Enforcement Division’s highly successful negotiated rulemaking working groups. Through working group participation and our professional relationships with prominent state and local officials, VS has continued to shape the regulations under which the Colorado cannabis system operates.
Today, our opinions are not just sought out and respected in Colorado, but in other states and even in other countries. Members of our team have:
Because each government and community is unique, our services are tailored to the individual needs of each public-sector client. We offer comprehensive guidance on a wide variety of subjects, including:
We work collaboratively with stakeholders to identify the broad range of interests that exist and to create policies that match the desires of your administration and the needs of your community. Depending on your specific needs, our assistance can be limited to providing recommendations or comments on a single draft or existing policy, or it may cover the entire drafting process from planning to passage, with ongoing advisory, analytical, and drafting services.
Our analytical services are customized to meet the individual needs of each public-sector client and provide a data-driven basis for their marijuana policy decisions. We provide a wide range of market, policy, economic, financial, and statistical research, including:
By Sally Kent Peebles
Feb 1, 2023
Nearly one year after Gov. Reeves signed the Mississippi Medical cannabis Act (MMCA), medical marijuana sales launched in the Magnolia State. License applications are still being accepted.
By David M. Ullian
Feb 1, 2023
After failing to pass medical cannabis bills in 2022, legislators in North Carolina and South Carolina are preparing to consider bills that would legalize and regulate the production and use of medical cannabis in their respective states.
Jan 6, 2023
Florida state health regulators are looking to issue up to 22 more medical marijuana licenses to operators around the state. Sally Peebles dives into what this means for Medical Marijuana Treatment Center applicants in the Sunshine State.
By Michelle Bodian, Sam Kovach-Orr, Bridgette Nikisher
Dec 16, 2022
Draft regulations to implement New York's Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act have been published. While the draft regulations are over 280 pages, we summarized ten key items that will most directly impact hopeful and existing New York cannabis businesses.
Dec 8, 2022
Watch this session on-demand for a discussion on the cannabis landscape and emerging opportunities in Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
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.
By Jen Flanagan, Sam Kovach-Orr, Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 16, 2022
Widespread support for allowing cannabis retail sales in Rhode Island municipalities significantly expands opportunities for potential applicants seeking to obtain one of the 24 cannabis retail licenses expected to be available in 2023. Read this article for insight into what to expect next and how to prepare.
Nov 10, 2022
VS unpacks the cannabis- and psychedelics-related results of the 2022 election and discusses the implications of President Biden’s recent Executive Scheduling reform.
By Shane Pennington
Nov 9, 2022
What outcomes are possible from the impending administrative process to reconsider cannabis’s schedule I status? What are the implications of those various possible outcomes? And how should we all proceed in light of it all?
Nov 4, 2022
Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by The Green Peak podcast about federal cannabis legalization, the midterm elections and more. Listen now!
Nov 3, 2022
Is the Deep South Next for Cannabis Legalization? Sally Peebles and Andrew Livingston address this question on an upcoming Rootwurks webinar on November 22!
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.
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 Shane Pennington
Oct 21, 2022
To appreciate the gravity of the President’s scheduling directive and what could happen next, you need to understand (1) how the administrative process the President has set in motion will actually work and (2) how the agencies in charge have used it to affirm and reaffirm cannabis’s schedule I1 status repeatedly throughout the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970’s (“CSA”) history. Those topics are covered in this article.
By Shane Pennington
Oct 21, 2022
President Biden’s scheduling directive is enormously important. In fact, if permitted to run its course, it could revolutionize federal drug control law to a far greater degree than any of the many pending cannabis legalization bills.
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.
Sep 12, 2022
Brian Vicente discusses the roots of his cannabis career, how his firm grew to be one of the largest in cannabis law and more on a recent podcast titled, "Pot to Popular" hosted by CEO of MATTIO, Rosie Mattio.
Aug 29, 2022
VS partners Sally Peebles and Jerrico Perez will participate in an upcoming NHCC legal committee session spotlighting the unique southern cannabis landscape on August 31st.
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.
Aug 16, 2022
Vote for the panel "How Cannabis Can Save the U.S. Economy," featuring Shawn Hauser to be included in SXSW 2023!
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 15, 2022
Sally Kent Peebles was recently interviewed on First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross, a radio show on WJCT News, for a segment about the 2024 ballot initiative that would legalize marijuana in Florida for recreational use.
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.
Aug 9, 2022
Vote for the panel "On the Border: Cannabis Legalization in N America," featuring Brian Vicente to be included in SXSW 2023!
By Jen Flanagan
Aug 4, 2022
One of the most overlooked components of applying for a cannabis license is the importance of interacting with your local and state officials. In this article, former cannabis regulator Jen Flanagan offers some guidance on building rapport with elected officials and government employees.
By 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.
Jul 28, 2022
VS partner Adam Fine is slated to participate in two sessions in the upcoming AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on August 8, 2022.
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.
Jul 22, 2022
VS founding partner Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by the Proud to Work in Cannabis podcast to discuss details regarding federal drug policy, as well as his own entrepreneurial background - from Amendment 64 to today.
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.
Jun 29, 2022
VS partner Shawn Hauser visited the Palace of Westminster in London on June 29th to speak with members of Parliament about the economic benefits and lessons learned from cannabis legalization in Colorado and other states.
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.
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.
By Marc Ross
Jun 7, 2022
New York's draft cannabis packaging regulations sustainability requirements are definitely a step forward for the industry, but will it be enough? Read this article to learn more about the requirements and gain insight into options for operators.
By Jamie Greenwood
Jun 6, 2022
The State of Colorado is convening a task force to collaborate on a report concerning intoxicating hemp products. Participate in the process by joining the task force, attending meetings, and submitting public comments!
By Brandon Kurtzman, Michelle Bodian, Casey Leaver
Jun 2, 2022
The NY Cannabis Control Board voted to approve draft regulations for Adult-Use Packaging and Labeling and Marketing and Advertising. Read our overview and take this opportunity to submit your public comments.
By Meg Nash
May 26, 2022
After years of debate, Rhode Island legalized cannabis for adult use. Read this for key provisions of the "Rhode Island Cannabis Act."
May 20, 2022
On Friday, June 3 at 10 a.m. ET, Sally will join the panel "Legislative Updates: A Comparison of State Models."
By Shawn Hauser
May 17, 2022
Marijuana and hemp were making progress on parallel tracks, but the recent emergence of delta-8 THC and other intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids has resulted in a collision that may hinder the pathway to federal legitimacy for both industries.
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 18, 2022
In advance of 4/20 celebrations this week, the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) provided important reminders for Colorado medical and retail marijuana business licensees and licensed employees.
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.
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.
By Shane Pennington
Mar 25, 2022
Reps. Nancy Mace and Barbara Lee recently filed a resolution imploring President Biden to push the UN to remove cannabis from the list of controlled substances in the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961. Taking this proposal seriously may prevent the DEA from placing hemp back on the federal CSA schedules.
By Jen Flanagan
Mar 9, 2022
Utilizing these tips can make a world of difference in your interaction with local and state governments.
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.
Mar 4, 2022
VS counsel Shane Pennington is joining Dr. Sue Sisley and attorney Matt Zorn on Tuesday, March 15 at 10 a.m. CT for the SXSW session "Sue 'n the DEA: Breaking the 50-year NIDA Monopoly."
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Feb 16, 2022
The law is intended to accelerate the cultivation, processing, and distribution of cannabis in New York.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Feb 3, 2022
The Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act (MMCA) is poised to achieve what no other southern state has yet to accomplish—the development of a refreshingly non-competitive licensed program that should allow for greater patient access and lower barriers to entry for those interested in participating in this exciting 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 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.
By Charles Alovisetti, Michelle Bodian, Brandon Kurtzman
Jan 18, 2022
While we still don’t have draft or final cannabis regulations, applications, or a definitive timetable, plenty of new information has come out since legalization. Read this article for ten key updates about New York’s market in the past year.
By Shawn Hauser
Jan 6, 2022
Since hemp was federally legalized, the industry has dealt with constantly changing rules, despite being in regulatory purgatory due to snail-paced progress from the FDA. Will circumstances change in 2022?
By Shane Pennington
Nov 4, 2021
The NIDA monopoly on cultivating cannabis for research ended in May 2021. Researchers can now study cannabis from state-legal markets by getting it from one of DEA's newly-licensed cannabis cultivators.
Nov 3, 2021
VS partner Adam Fine is slated to participate in two sessions in the upcoming AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on November 9, 2021.
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.
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 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!
Oct 5, 2021
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!
Sep 24, 2021
Join these cannabis financial and legal thought leaders as they discuss the rapidly changing cannabis capital and finance landscape.
By Bridgette Nikisher
Sep 23, 2021
Gov. Hochul made final appointments to the CCB. Now the Office of Cannabis Management can get to work.
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.
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.
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.
Aug 25, 2021
Vote for the panel "Sue 'n the DEA: Breaking the 50-Year NIDA Monopoly," featuring Shane Pennington to be included in SXSW 2022!
Aug 25, 2021
Vote for the panel "Sue 'n the DEA: Breaking the 50-Year NIDA Monopoly," featuring Shane Pennington to be included in SXSW 2022!
By Shawn Hauser
Aug 25, 2021
Recent NDIN notification objections from the FDA give us more insight into the agency's factors differentiating "full spectrum" hemp from CBD.
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 18, 2021
VS counsel Shane Pennington discusses the current state of federal cannabis regulation, how it came about, and what lessons we've learned so far in this on-demand CLE.
Aug 18, 2021
VS director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, joined The Green Rush Live to discuss the Federal CAO Act and more.
Aug 16, 2021
VS Founding Partner Christian Sederberg will join Steven Hawkins and Rezwan Khan for an insightful panel about federal cannabis legalization efforts at Cannabis Conference on August 25, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Aug 11, 2021
New York Gov. Cuomo announced his plans to step down as governor, effective August 24, 2021. On that day, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will step into the governorship. What will this mean for implementing adult-use cannabis in the Empire State?
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.
By Shawn Hauser, Jace Pohlman
Jul 28, 2021
In this article, we lay out the CAOA’s key provisions governing hemp, related cannabis product regulation, and areas where legislators specifically seek industry feedback to inform the best policy approach.
Jul 28, 2021
This CLE, featuring Shane Pennington, provides an overview of the appellate process.
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.
Jul 12, 2021
VS partner Christian Sederberg and host Jonathan Smalls discuss THC potency caps and cannabis reform in this insightful podcast from Wana.
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
VS partner Charles Alovisetti discussed cannabis policy and his book, The Cannabis Business, in this episode of In the Weeds with Jimmy Young podcast.
By Michelle Bodian
Jun 24, 2021
Get answers to the who, what, when, and where questions that surround Connecticut's new cannabis law.
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 23, 2021
VS founding partner Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by legal columnist Alison Frankel of Reuters about his background in cannabis law and thoughts for the future.
By Colleen Mitchell, Tucker Wentz
Jun 9, 2021
Montana lawmakers recently approved HB 701, which outlines key aspects of the framework that will govern the Treasure State’s new cannabis program.
Jun 9, 2021
This week in federal court, VS counsel Shane Pennington will give oral arguments to get cannabis out of the Schedule 1 drug classification.
Jun 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.
Jun 3, 2021
VS's director of regulatory policy will present the keynote at the June 16, 2021 Worcester Business of Cannabis Forum.
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
May 24, 2021
Read the memo VS delivered to the International Narcotics Control Board, which gives draft guidelines on control requirements for medical and scientific cannabis and discusses the implications and important issues for consideration.
By Corey Cox, Caitlin Wightman
May 24, 2021
The Colorado government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
May 4, 2021
Colorado Law Executive Education and CU Leeds School of Business are offering an online Cannabis Entrepreneurship Academy on Fridays during June 2021. The academy will tackle many cannabis business issues, including leadership, financing, regulations, markets, and more!
Apr 30, 2021
Josh Kappel recently chatted with host Bruce Eckfeldt about the beginnings of his work in cannabis law and advocacy, as well as what he's doing now and thoughts for the future.
Apr 23, 2021
Shawn Hauser and Jerrico Perez are slated to moderate two can't-miss discussions with Beto O'Rourke and Joe Jaworski on April 27 and 28 during Willie Nelson's first annual Luck Summit.
Apr 22, 2021
Jordan Wellington and Andrew Livingston discuss federal cannabis policy reform and the SAFE Banking Act with Congressman Earl Blumenauer.
Apr 19, 2021
Christian Sederberg and Barine Majewska will speak on cannabis law and psychedelics during the Cannalaw Summit on May 6, 2021.
Apr 9, 2021
Watch this presentation for a look into the new law, how it will be implemented, and the opportunities it will create for businesses and individuals.
Mar 29, 2021
An updated overview and FAQ of the federal stimulus bills for coronavirus, with specific guidance for marijuana, hemp and ancillary businesses.
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 Shawn Hauser
Mar 23, 2021
While we move closer to federal legalization, the great state of Texas remains an untapped major market—ripe for reform, but hard to move. Read this for opportunities to help bring about more responsible cannabis policies in the Lone Star State.
Mar 19, 2021
VS partner Brian Vicente discusses cannabis policy reform and state and federal legalization in this episode of In the Weeds with Jimmy Young podcast.
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 12, 2021
VS's director of economics and research featured on Episode 344 - As Goes the Senate
Feb 10, 2021
VS partner Sally Kent Peebles will discuss adult-use cannabis legalization in Florida with a Florida State Senator and State Representative.
Feb 4, 2021
A look into cannabis legalization, markets, and opportunities in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.
By Andrea A. Golan, Michelle Bodian
Jan 28, 2021
Cannabis businesses are not eligible for relief under any of the federal COVID-19 aid packages, but members of Congress and industry groups are making significant efforts to include cannabis businesses in federal aid.
Jan 22, 2021
VS counsel Elliot Choi will moderate a panel with two of Governor Cuomo's top officials working on cannabis policy issues.
Jan 13, 2021
Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released regulatory changes impacting applicants, licensees, and stakeholders on January 8, 2021.
By Charles Alovisetti, Corey Cox, Justin Johnson, Andrew Livingston, Jessica Scardina, Jordan Wellington, Catie Wightman
Jan 11, 2021
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Colorado.
Dec 29, 2020
The article, titled "Nation's Top Cannabis Lawyer to Head Industry's Leading Trade Group," discusses Christian's path to cannabis law and delves into the Cannabis Trade Federation's main priorities.
Dec 23, 2020
Updates on proposed reforms, 2021 cannabis and hemp bills, new metrc restrictions, and branded merchandise guidance.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Dec 22, 2020
With its plan to regulate and tax adult-use cannabis sales underway, the Garden State is easily positioned to be the East Coast’s cannabis leader in sales and regulatory practices that support and promote small, locally-owned businesses and equitable ownership.
By Andrew Livingston, Shawn Hauser, Dwight Clark, Mason Tvert
Dec 18, 2020
This VS white paper explains why the current medical marijuana program is falling short and how policymakers can improve patient access, treatment outcomes, and the health of the program. It also explores how such changes would impact the medical cannabis market.
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.
By Shawn Hauser
Dec 1, 2020
This week marks a historic milestone in cannabis policy as both the United Nations and the U.S. House of Representatives consider modernizing prohibitionist cannabis laws.
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.
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 1, 2020
Read the memo VS delivered to the International Narcotics Control Board, which contests current international controls of CBD preparations and discusses the potential impacts of reform.
Nov 20, 2020
Returning guest Steve Fox of VS Strategies joins hosts Jordan Wellington and Andrew Livingston to talk about cannabis's winning sweep in the 2020 elections, including a discussion of the results left to be settled.
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 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.
By Charles Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Andrea Golan
Nov 5, 2020
The coronavirus and efforts to contain it have led to changes in the regulatory landscape and consumer behavior that are likely to shape the cannabis industry moving forward. In spite of COVID-19, or perhaps because of it, the cannabis industry is thriving, and will continue to do so as long as demand remains strong and operators adhere to the rules and regulations designed to keep consumers and employees safe.
By Charles Alovisetti, Tucker Wentz
Oct 30, 2020
Montana is voting on two related adult-use ballot initiatives in the general election, one constitutional and one statutory
By Charles Alovisetti and Kimura Mercer
Oct 30, 2020
South Dakota has two cannabis ballot measures this fall: one legalizing medical marijuana and one legalizing adult-use marijuana.
Oct 30, 2020
Brian Vicente weighs in on the challenges and opportunities of helping those who’ve been unfairly targeted by the War on Drugs on episode 93 of the Brave New Weed podcast.
By Jerrico Perez and Jason Adelstone
Oct 29, 2020
On November 3, 2020, Arizona voters will again vote to legalize an adult-use marijuana program, four years after rejecting a similar initiative.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Oct 29, 2020
In less than one week, Mississippi voters will have the chance to vote on and approve Initiative 65, a refreshingly comprehensive and patient-focused medical marijuana amendment.
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.
By Steve Fox
Oct 26, 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. This post takes a look at cannabis legalization on the federal level.
By Andrew Livingston, Shawn Hauser, Dwight Clark, Mason Tvert
Oct 21, 2020
Texas could see more than half a billion dollars in annual tax revenue and tens of thousands of new jobs if it legalizes cannabis, a VS analysis finds.
Oct 21, 2020
An overview and FAQ of the federal stimulus bills for coronavirus, with specific guidance for marijuana, hemp and ancillary businesses.
By Elliot Y. Choi, Michelle Bodian
Oct 20, 2020
With the USDA interim final rule delayed, where does this leave states for the 2021 hemp growing season?
By Charles Alovisetti, Michelle Bodian, Elliot Choi
Oct 19, 2020
A brief history of cannabis regulation (including hemp) in the Commonwealth.
Oct 12, 2020
VS partner Sally Kent Peebles was elected co-chair of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee.
Sep 2, 2020
Moderated by Brian Vicente, this fireside chat educates viewers on the Mississippi ballot initiative campaign to make medical marijuana available to patients suffering from debilitating medical conditions in Mississippi through their physicians.
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.
Aug 21, 2020
VS attorney Jennifer Cabrera will discuss how legalization will affect NJ municipalities in this event from NJ Cannabis Insider.
By Amber Lengacher, Kelsey Middleton
Aug 5, 2020
Participating in our democracy by submitting public comments is just one of the effective ways we can make a difference in regulatory policy and help contentious issues, like cannabis, gain legitimacy in the eyes of society.
Jul 21, 2020
Learn about efforts being made by Agricultural Hemp Solutions and Vote Hemp to align federal legislation and USDA rulemaking with the domestic hemp industry.
Jul 2, 2020
Colorado Representative Leslie Herod speaks with hosts Jordan Wellington and Andrew Livingston about police reform activism and how Colorado’s state legislature is approaching it.
Jun 22, 2020
Elliot Choi joined Cannabis Legalization News in a recent livestream to discuss New York’s cannabis initiatives.
By Amber Lengacher, Elliot Choi
Jun 15, 2020
While often overlooked, the Single Convention has important implications on cannabis reform, including purportedly requiring the US to maintain cannabis on Schedule I of the CSA.
By Michelle Bodian
Jun 10, 2020
As we reflect on hemp industry progress during Hemp Week, let's also take action to move this industry forward with the following vital initiatives...
Jun 1, 2020
The DEA accepted public comments on rules to enhance the cultivation of “marihuana” for research purposes in the US. View the comment from Vicente Sederberg LLP.
By Corey Cox
May 28, 2020
The CBD-based medicine, Epidiolex, was descheduled by the DEA and is no longer a controlled substance. What are the implications of this change and what, if anything, does it mean for CBD products in general?
By Sahar Ayinehsazian and Kelsey Middleton
May 28, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Michigan.
May 21, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP, VS Strategies, and Cannabis Trainers held a timely virtual discussion about the new reality and rules for Colorado cannabis businesses.
By Alex Lamphier
May 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Massachusetts.
May 15, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP and the Marijuana Policy Project provide an update on how COVID-19 has impacted 2020 cannabis reform efforts.
By Andrea A. Golan
May 7, 2020
The CARES Act provides many food- and agriculture-related benefits to the hemp industry to offset the immediate economic impacts of COVID-19.
By Kelsey Middleton
May 7, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Nevada.
By Sahar Ayinehsazian and Kelsey Middleton
Apr 30, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Illinois.
By Amber Lengacher, Corey Cox, Shawn Hauser
Apr 30, 2020
Part 1 in a series on opportunities to shape cannabis policy. The DEA announced it will accept public comments on rules to enhance the cultivation of “marihuana” for research purposes in the US. Now's your chance to be heard!
By Meg Nash, David Gately
Apr 30, 2020
The Massachusetts government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
By Elliot Choi, Jennifer Cabrera, and Jacob Setton
Apr 29, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in New York.
Apr 28, 2020
VS founding partner Josh Kappel recently discussed cannabis business eligibility for CARES Act programs with Marijuana Business Daily
By Andrea A. Golan
Apr 24, 2020
While cannabis businesses are not currently eligible for many federal relief programs established in response to COVID-19, they may be eligible for this form of federal relief.
By Andrea A. Golan and Kelsey Middleton
Apr 22, 2020
Apr 20, 2020
Shawn Hauser and Dwight Clark talked about SBA loans for cannabis businesses and political advocacy during Texas NORML's 420 Stream-A-Thon.
Apr 17, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on hemp businesses, service providers, and consumers.
By Charles Alovisetti, Brandon Kurtzman
Apr 16, 2020
Since COVID-19 has limited patient ability to get in-person consultations and examinations with health care providers, how does one go about obtaining a medical marijuana patient certification?
Apr 16, 2020
Gov. Charlie Baker's ban on adult sales will remain in place, but the court's decision highlighted how it could legally be lifted and why it would help medical cannabis patients.
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 Elliot Choi and 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 Pennsylvania.
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?
By Elliot Choi and 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 Connecticut.
By Alex Lamphier
Apr 10, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Maine.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Apr 8, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Oregon.
Apr 8, 2020
Andrew Livingston talks about cannabis economics during the coronavirus crisis in this CanopyBoulder Investor Hub event.
Apr 7, 2020
Attorneys from Vicente Sederberg and Kleinfeld Kaplan & Becker discuss the hemp and CBD industry, including important FDA updates in this webinar replay.
Apr 7, 2020
Watch the replay of this discussion on federal financial assistance and lending available for hemp and CBD businesses in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
Apr 2, 2020
Josh Kappel discusses COVID-19 stimulus packages and the impact on the cannabis industry in this CanopyBoulder Investor Hub event.
Apr 1, 2020
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has designated medical cannabis sales essential, but not adult sales, resulting in a total shutdown of the adult-use market. Vicente Sederberg is working with local business owners, organizations, and state officials to push for a responsible solution to the situation.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Apr 1, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Florida.
Apr 1, 2020
Watch this interactive discussion with the nation’s leading employment and cannabis industry law firms, Littler Mendelson and Vicente Sederberg, about the known and possible employment-related legal issues arising from COVID-19’s threat and uncertainty.
By Brett Williams and Dwight Clark
Mar 30, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Oklahoma.
By Sahar Ayinehsazian and Kelsey Middleton
Mar 27, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Washington.
Mar 27, 2020
Watch the replay of this timely discussion on coronavirus (COVID-19) regulatory updates affecting the cannabis industry.
By Kelsey Middleton
Mar 26, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Ohio.
Mar 24, 2020
A coalition of hemp industry stakeholders, including Vicente Sederberg LLP, released a second set of new policy recommendations for officials developing federally compliant state hemp programs.
By David Gately and David Kramer
Mar 23, 2020
A summary of recent hemp and CBD news and developments in light of coronavirus and federal updates from the FDA and USDA.
By Alex Lamphier
Mar 20, 2020
Steps that cannabis operators can take to encourage physical distancing in an effort to reduce the potential coronavirus (COVID-19) spread throughout the cannabis community.
Mar 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP partner Shawn Hauser participated in Texas NORML's "State of Cannabis 2020." Watch it here!
Mar 12, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP has been working hard for many years to shape cannabis policy reform in Texas... and now we're pleased to announce that we've opened an office in Austin!
By Shawn Hauser, Partner
Mar 12, 2020
The FDA issued its first report to Congress, along with a public update regarding its progress in evaluating lawful pathways for the marketing of CBD products and considering a risk-based enforcement policy. Read the summary from VS Hemp Department leader, Shawn Hauser.
By Shawn Hauser, Partner
Feb 27, 2020
The beginning of federally regulated hemp has been marred by industry-wide concerns about an overly restrictive federal program, and what may come from the USDA review of more than 4,600 comments to its interim final rule governing U.S. hemp production.
Feb 27, 2020
A coalition of hemp industry stakeholders, including Vicente Sederberg LLP, released new policy recommendations and an updated model plan for state hemp programs.
Feb 19, 2020
VS political analyst, technical writer, and former Oklahoman, Dwight Clark, sat down with the Weed Wonks to discuss the current nature of cannabis in Oklahoma, how its MMJ legalization drastically differed other states, and how their regulatory rollout of MMJ could shape other state's legalization efforts going forward.
Jan 31, 2020
Cannabis activists in Missouri officially launched their campaign to put marijuana legalization on the Show-Me State’s November 2020 ballot. Show your support by attending an insider briefing at our Denver office.
Jan 23, 2020
Former VS licensing specialist and current compliance manager at Coda Signature, Genevieve Meehan, joins Jordan and Andrew on the Weed Wonks podcast to talk about cannabis compliance, legislation, and activism.
Jan 15, 2020
VS Strategies president Steve Fox joins Jordan and Andrew on the Weed Wonks podcast to talk about the SAFE Banking Act and the hurdles it faces in a Republican Senate.
Jan 13, 2020
Former Colorado state Representative Sal Pace joins Jordan and Andrew to talk about the history of Colorado legalization and about his work with the Cannabis Voter Project, which seeks to register marijuana-friendly voters.
By Shawn Hauser, Partner; Corey Cox, Associate Attorney
Nov 27, 2019
The FDA issued an update on November 25, 2019, reiterating its position on CBD products in food and dietary supplements. What does this mean for your business?
Nov 20, 2019
VS attorney Sally Kent Peebles was voted Chair of the Legislative & Legal subcommittee within the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee.
By Charles Alovisetti, Partner
Nov 18, 2019
With a historic cannabis legislation vote approaching, let’s take a look at the current status of federal law regarding cannabis, other pieces of cannabis-related legislation that have been introduced, and what the MORE Act contains.
By Shawn Hauser, Partner; Michelle Bodian, Senior Associate Attorney; Caitlin Wightman, Law Clerk
Aug 23, 2019
Key takeaways from the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee’s historic hearing on Thursday, July 25, 2019, where they discussed hemp production and related issues ahead of the release of federal rules.
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.
Jun 17, 2019
May 8, 2019
Barton Morris, of counsel at Vicente Sederberg and founder of Cannabis Legal Group, VS's strategic partner in Michigan, was selected to be a member of Attorney General Dana Nessel's marijuana legal workgroup.
Feb 28, 2019
Attorneys with Vicente Sederberg's Hemp and Cannabinoids Practice Group played a leading role in producing the American Hemp Campaign's model plan for state hemp programs, which will guide policymakers in the development of regulatory regimes governing hemp production across the U.S.
Dec 13, 2018
The U.S. House of Representatives gave final approval Wednesday (368-47) to the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, known as the farm bill, which includes historic provisions that explicitly legalize the production of hemp and establish a regulatory framework for the U.S. hemp industry. The legislation, which was approved by the Senate yesterday (87-13), is now headed to President Trump, who is expected to sign it into law before the end of the week.
Jan 4, 2018
Attorney General Jeff Sessions released a memo to U.S. attorneys today announcing he has rescinded all previously issued Justice Department guidance concerning marijuana policy.