Back to Office actions

What does "Controlled Substances Act Refusal" in my office action mean?

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

Controlled Substances Act (CSA) Refusal in a trademark office action means the USPTO is dismissing the registration due to the product containing substances whose use in commerce is not lawful in the whole of US commerce, such as Cannabis or CBD.

It is theoretically possible to overcome this refusal if the applicant can prove the goods contain less than a lawful amount of THC (and therefore qualify as "hemp" products). Alternatively, an applicant can seek trademark protection on a state level in states where the corresponding substances are legal.

Related questions

From Kimono, through #KimOhNo, to Skims: A branding nightmare for Kim Kardashian

#KimOhNo became a symbol of the backlash to Kim Kardashian’s attempt to register a trademark for her new line of shape wear, Kimono.

Miley Cyrus joins Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, and Paris Hilton onboard the metaverse trademark hype train

Many celebrities, including Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, Paris Hilton, and, most recently, Miley Cyrus, have been showing interest in the metaverse with their newly registered trademarks. Metaverse is said to offer a new way to bring music or products to people who cannot physically attend their stores or concerts or who simply prefer to enjoy them from the comfort of their homes. What is behind this trend and why do celebrities find it so appealing?

Stories of our clients: Natural Health Store

Adversity gives rise to greatness. The very idea to launch Natural Health Store came from facing the risk of redundancy. Nowadays, this family-owned business has created brand recognition worth protecting.