#United States #Teamsters #York #Cannabis Workers #Green Thumb

A Historical Win for Cannabis Workers

In York, Pennsylvania, workers at Green Thumb Industries (GTI) subsidiary Rise made history by ratifying their first Teamsters contract after an impressive 45-day strike. This event marks the longest successful work stoppage in the U.S. cannabis industry, reflecting the determination of the labor force in this emerging and rapidly evolving sector.

Ed Thompson, President of Teamsters Local 776, heralded this as a monumental achievement, stating, "This victory is attributable to the resilience and courage exhibited by our members." He further emphasized the strike's significance in paving the way for other cannabis workers to join their movement.

The newly agreed-upon collective bargaining contract introduces various improvements for the workforce, including paid holidays, bereavement leave, annual wage increases, along with a more equitable process for addressing disciplinary issues. These enhancements not only uplift the standard for the workers but also enhance the overall work environment within the cannabis sector.

This strike has set a new benchmark, surpassing the previous record for the longest work stoppage held by Teamsters in Illinois just two years ago. Jesse Case, the Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, underscored that this strike serves as a strong example of how Teamsters contracts can foster long-term prosperity for workers across the industry. Raising the standards in multi-state cannabis operations benefits not just the employees but also cultivators and consumers.

Witnessing widespread support throughout the community, John Stambaugh, a patient care specialist, reflected on the solidarity expressed by the public and fellow union members. “The outpouring of support we received embodies what solidarity truly means,” he stated. This strong community backing can be viewed as a clear testament to the important role labor unions play in advocating for workers' rights, organizing for better workplace conditions and establishing collective bargaining leverage.

Local 776, which represents thousands of workers across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia, now leads the charge for other cannabis retail workers. The resolve demonstrated by these workers illustrates their commitment to continuous improvement within their working conditions. They have garnered attention not just for their labor rights advocacy but their contributions to establishing equitable treatment in a fast-growing industry that often lacks established labor protections.

This strike signals a potential shift in the landscape of labor relations within the cannabis industry. More workers may embrace unionization as a means to secure better wages and benefits, which may reflect a broader trend in sectors that are still defining their operational frameworks and labor standards.

The new contract and the successful strike serve as hope for cannabis workers striving for similar rights across the country. As this industry continues to expand, the work of Teamsters Local 776 exemplifies how organized labor can reshape the narrative for cannabis workers, laying founding principles for workplace fairness and labor advocacy. This victory showcases the power of collective bargaining and serves as an important movement toward strengthening labor rights across North America.

For more information about Teamsters Local 776 and their ongoing efforts, you can visit their website at teamsterslocal776.org.