HENDERSON, Nev., Oct. 18, 2024 – PRESS RELEASE – Earlier this week in Nevada, 20 cannabis retail workers at Henderson’s RISE dispensary, owned by Green Thumb Industries, voted to ratify their first contract. The contract includes guaranteed wage increases, increased benefits for part-timers, faster PTO accrual, predictable scheduling and workplace protections. The dispensary workers are unionized with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 711.
RISE Personal Care Specialist Blaze Linn said the following: "Working in the Nevada cannabis industry for years, I have seen firsthand the importance for workers to unionize and after seeing my team's hard work and patience to stand up for their rights I can only hope others follow suit. Better rights, better wages make for better lives."
RISE Personal Care Specialist Selene Ketcham said the following: "I am grateful that our team worked together to achieve this goal, and I hope we inspire other cannabis workers all over the nation to unionize; it really is possible to get better wages and benefits if you stand united and don't give up."
RISE Personal Care Specialist Silvia Ruiz said the following: “My co-workers endured significant challenges. Our workplace, meant to focus on medicine, became fraught with drama. Many of us struggled emotionally during shifts. I’m proud of those who persevered. We’ve achieved deserved improvements, including raises, increased paid time off, and a meaningful voice. Our worker-led committee negotiated tirelessly for these changes. The union’s support was crucial in resolving personal issues. I’m proud of our collective achievement and excited about its impact."
RISE Personal Care Specialist Tasha Holder said the following: “Unions empower workers through collective action, giving them leverage against employers on issues like wages and working conditions. They advocate for fair treatment, livable wages, safe environments, and protection against toxic workplaces. In the cannabis industry, unions help navigate specific legal challenges. I'm grateful to our co-workers who fought for change."
