Cannabis workers across the U.S. are seeing a surge in unionization efforts, with major victories for employees in Illinois and Nevada. From cultivation facilities to retail outlets, workers are pushing for better wages, safer conditions, and respect on the job.
Illinois Cannabis Workers Join Teamsters Local 777
Employees at PharmaCann’s cannabis cultivation facility in Dwight, Illinois, have overwhelmingly voted to unionize, joining Teamsters Local 777. This union already represents more than 100 PharmaCann workers throughout the state. The decision reflects growing labor momentum in the cannabis industry.
Local 777 President Jim Glimco expressed optimism about the outcome. “We look forward to getting these cultivation workers a great union contract, just like we’ve already done for PharmaCann retail workers throughout the state,” he said.
Unionization efforts in Illinois have been particularly successful compared to other states. According to Cannabiz Media data, Illinois has outpaced the rest of the U.S. with more than 50 successful union votes in the cannabis sector, surpassing even California, which ranks second with half as many union campaigns.
This growing trend reflects the increasing organization of cannabis industry workers as they push for more equitable working conditions. The union’s efforts extend across cultivation and retail, demonstrating a unified approach to worker advocacy.
Nevada’s Ayr Wellness Workers Secure First Union Contract
In Nevada, over 120 cannabis retail and delivery employees at Ayr Wellness have ratified their first union contract. Represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 711, these workers operate three retail locations and a delivery hub in Las Vegas and Henderson.
Chase Payne, a budtender at the Eastern Avenue location in Las Vegas, shared his perspective. “We fought for fair wages, safe conditions, and respect,” he said, emphasizing the workers’ collective resolve to improve their working environment.
The ratified contract is a significant milestone for these employees, offering a new level of stability and recognition. It’s also a key moment for the UFCW, which continues to organize cannabis workers nationwide.
Highlights of Union Wins
- PharmaCann in Illinois: Over 100 workers represented by Teamsters Local 777, including new additions from the Dwight cultivation facility.
- Ayr Wellness in Nevada: First union contract ratified by more than 120 employees in Las Vegas and Henderson.
A National Trend in Cannabis Unionization
Labor unions such as the Teamsters and UFCW are becoming increasingly active in the cannabis sector. Their efforts underscore a broader national push to ensure that the rapid growth of the marijuana industry benefits not only businesses but also their employees.
While union campaigns often face resistance in other industries, cannabis workers have successfully organized at a remarkable pace. Illinois, in particular, has set a standard, with unionized workers becoming a notable force in shaping the industry’s labor landscape.
The success stories from PharmaCann and Ayr Wellness highlight a shift toward empowering employees in this booming sector. Workers are no longer content to watch from the sidelines as the cannabis industry expands—they are taking charge and advocating for their rights.