#United States #Cannabis #Teamsters #Ascend #Aberdeen

Teamsters Achieve Historic Cannabis Contract in Maryland

A New Era for Cannabis Workers

In an unprecedented step for the cannabis industry in Maryland, members of Teamsters Local 570, comprising budtenders and shift leaders at Ascend in Aberdeen, have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. This landmark contract makes them the first cannabis workers in the state to benefit from a Teamsters contract, a significant milestone for labor rights in the rapidly evolving cannabis sector.

Sean Cedenio, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 570, expressed immense pride in the workers' determination throughout the negotiation process. “These workers demonstrated courage and unity as they stood firm for their rights,” he remarked. “Their commitment serves as an inspiration, and what we have achieved here can serve as a model for other dispensaries across Maryland.”

Benefits of the New Contract

The newly ratified collective bargaining agreement guarantees various enhancements for the workers, including wage increases, improved job security, paid time off, and enhanced safety measures. Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, noted that cannabis workers increasingly recognize the value of joining a union like the Teamsters, which strives to provide stability in an industry known for its fluctuations. “Teamsters are becoming synonymous with secure and rewarding careers in cannabis,” he stated.

Ryan Bennett, a Dispensary Associate Lead and a member of Local 570, highlighted the broader implications of the contract. “Every worker deserves fair wages and decent working conditions,” he said. “As the cannabis industry continues to expand, the success of its workforce must also grow. This contract is a testament to the Teamsters' dedication to amplifying the workers' voices, regardless of their industry.”

A Broader Movement

This accomplishment in Maryland aligns with the Teamsters' track record of advocating for cannabis workers in other states, such as Illinois and Michigan, where the union has successfully negotiated solid contracts. The trend reflects a growing movement towards formalizing labor rights in a field that has traditionally been marked by instability and uncertainty.

Teamsters Local 570 represents an array of workers across various sectors in the Baltimore area and beyond. Their commitment to organizing and fighting for the rights of workers emphasizes the importance of solidarity in an industry that is just beginning to find its footing.

Looking Ahead

As more cannabis workers realize the advantages of union representation, the Teamsters are expected to play a crucial role in shaping labor standards in this new market. This historic contract not only signifies a victory for the workers at Ascend but also paves the way for future negotiations across the cannabis sector in Maryland and potentially beyond.

For individuals interested in learning more about Teamsters Local 570 and their initiatives, detailed information is available at Teamsters Local 570 Website.

In summary, the ratification of this contract is more than a localized victory; it serves as an essential step towards the normalization of union representation in the cannabis industry, setting a precedent that could resonate for years to come.