Portland Dispensary Workers Sign First Cannabis Union Contract in the State
Photo via Stoney Brothers Facebook pageThere’s been lots of talk surrounding cannabis and unionization as of lately, and it looks like the chatter has only begun; employees at Portland disp
Photos via Stoney Brothers Facebook page[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]T[/dropcap]here’s been lots of talk surrounding cannabis and unionization as of lately, and it looks like the chatter has only begun; employees at Portland dispensary, Stoney Brothers, have approved the first union contract for cannabis workers in the state.
The team unanimously voted to join the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555 chapter which offers employees increased pay rates as well as benefits. The contract confirms base starting salaries of $15/hour for cashiers, $20/hour for trimmers, and $32/hour for master cultivators. The contract also provides for “regular raises, affordable health insurance through a multi-employer fund, pension contributions, paid vacations and sick leave, as well as seniority and grievance protections.”
Last year, Oakland-based edibles company, Bhang Chocolates, joined the UFCW. It seems the growing trend of structured and professional pay in addition to health benefits is catching on in the growing cannabis industry.
