Michael Roche, senior associate in the firm’s Cannabis Law and Corporate practice groups, was recently interviewed in a Rochester Democrat & Chronicle article titled, “New York’s marijuana law: What’s happening now, and how it might affect bars.” The article covers the top 10 takeaways from Michael’s presentation to the crowd at the 2021 Rochester Cocktail Revival kick-off event where he was the featured speaker. In its 8th year, the Rochester Cocktail Revival is New York State’s only week-long spirits festival that includes parties, pairing dinners, educational seminars, and a bartender competition in more than 20 different venues across Rochester. In his presentation at the event, Michael covered legal updates in the New York State and federal cannabis industry, restrictions on using hemp/cannabis in drinks, and licensing tiers and options. In the interview, Michael described that although many things are up in the air with the cannabis industry right now, especially with no movement on selecting the five-person NYS cannabis board, people interested in establishing a business in the industry could prepare by forming a legal entity and registering trademarks and logos. “A little planning now will go a long way in the future,” he said.
To view the article on the Democrat & Chronicle website, click here.