Teamsters Local 469 Achieves Milestone in Cannabis Labor Rights with Collective Bargaining Agreement

Teamsters Local 469 Sees Major Victory in Cannabis Labor

In a significant victory for labor rights within the cannabis industry, Teamsters Local 469 has ratified its inaugural collective bargaining agreement. This milestone was achieved in Hazlet, New Jersey, illustrating the union's proactive approach to organizing workers in the rapidly expanding cannabis sector.

Michael Broderick, President of Local 469, emphasized the importance of this industry for the union, stating, "This is a core industry for our union and a major priority for us." He expressed optimism for further organizing efforts, indicating that the union aims to secure more contracts that provide fair respect and adequate compensation for its members.

The newly ratified contract is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Local 469's members at the Garden Society dispensary. Organized less than six months ago, these workers have now secured a wage increase of over 30% spread across three years. Additionally, the collective bargaining agreement brings improved paid time off, overtime provisions, employer-funded retirement contributions, and protections from unjust discipline and subcontracting practices.

Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, commented that developments in New Jersey’s cannabis industry indicate a positive trend for labor unions nationwide. He stated, "What you're seeing in New Jersey is indicative of what you're going to see all over the country. We're winning the best contracts in cannabis because we're the best union in cannabis."

This recent achievement also follows a wave of worker support, as employees at the Cannabist dispensary in Mays Landing, New Jersey, voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 469 just days before Garden Society's contract ratification. Abby Hill, a worker at Cannabist, shared her excitement about the additional support a Teamsters contract will provide, stating, "I'm looking forward to the support a Teamsters contract will provide. I'm excited for what the future holds for us."

As Local 469 continues to represent more than 4,000 workers across New Jersey, this momentum highlights the union's commitment not just to the cannabis industry, but to elevating the standards of labor rights everywhere. The union is determined to ensure that all workers in this burgeoning industry receive the recognition and compensation they rightfully deserve.

Developments like these are not merely victories for individual workers or specific dispensaries; they are part of a broader movement advocating for fair labor practices in an industry that has traditionally struggled with regulation and rights for employees. As more workers join the Teamsters and similar unions, the voice of labor is becoming increasingly unified and powerful.

As the cannabis industry evolves, the vision of Teamsters Local 469 is clear: they aim to become a leading force in securing labor rights and benefits, fostering an equitable work environment for all employees within this transformative sector.