The Cannabis, Hemp, and Psychedelics Practice Group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, chaired by Joshua S. Bauchner, released their latest newsletter on October 20th, providing key updates on their ongoing legal battles and industry insights. You can read the full newsletter here.
The newsletter mentions that Mandelbaum Barrett PC’s Cannabis, Hemp, and Psychedelics Practice Group continues to lead efforts in protecting the rights of state-licensed hemp retailers in New York. On October 15, the practice group made significant progress in court, with the judge recognizing the distinction between legal hemp operations and unlicensed marijuana stores.
Bauchner reported that the court acknowledged the different regulatory frameworks governing hemp and unlicensed stores. Hemp retailers, governed by Article 5 of the Cannabis Law, should not be targeted under Section 138-A, which pertains to unlicensed marijuana operations. The judge allowed the petitioners to amend their filing, which strengthens their position as they seek to protect the industry from unjust raids and seizures.
With a court decision expected later this year, Bauchner emphasized the urgency for continued support, encouraging donations to the NY State Chapter of the American Healthy Alternatives Association to ensure ongoing advocacy efforts.
Additional Updates:
- Banking on Green: Mandelbaum Barrett’s cannabis banking initiative, a first of its kind, helps navigate regulatory challenges for businesses in the sector.
- New Jersey’s Hemp Regulations: The recent introduction of stricter hemp regulations in New Jersey has triggered legal challenges, leaving the future of compliance uncertain.
- Capitol Press Room Podcast: Joshua Bauchner shared insights on New York’s regulatory crackdown and its unintended impact on licensed hemp retailers.
Stay tuned for further developments as Joshua S. Bauchner and his team continue to champion fairness in the cannabis and hemp industry.