I am thrilled to share that I will be moderating a Table Topic on the impact of psychedelics legalization on trademark law at the International Trademark Association's (INTA) 2025 Annual Meeting in San Diego! The session will take place Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (PST).
With the increasing legalization of psychedelics for medical and even recreational use in various jurisdictions, trademark practitioners are facing new challenges and opportunities in brand protection, enforcement, and regulatory compliance. This INTA session will provide a platform for dynamic discussion, insights, and idea exchange on how evolving laws impact trademark strategies in this rapidly developing industry.
During this Table Topic we will likely cover key aspects such as how recent legal developments in psychedelics legalization impact trademark registrability, the role of federal and international trademark offices, and the challenges of branding and enforcing trademarks in a still-restricted market. We will also examine what lessons can be drawn from the cannabis industry, including strategies such as ancillary goods and services registrations, and explore the future of global intellectual property frameworks as they relate to psychedelics. Participants will be encouraged to share their perspectives, legal challenges, and potential solutions as we navigate this evolving landscape.
Why this topic matters
The legal and regulatory landscape surrounding psychedelics is shifting rapidly, and brand owners, attorneys, and businesses alike must navigate uncertain trademark protections while preparing for potential federal legalization. This discussion will help INTA attendees better understand the risks, strategies, and best practices for safeguarding brands in this space.
If you're attending INTA 2025, I invite you to join this session for a thought-provoking conversation on one of the most exciting and evolving frontiers in trademark law. I look forward to engaging with colleagues from around the world and exploring innovative legal solutions in this area.
See you in San Diego!