New Jersey Cannabis Workers Join Teamsters Union for the First Time

PASSAIC, N.J., Dec. 13, 2024 — Garden Society employees, who produce and prepare cannabis products, have voted decisively to become the first cannabis workers in New Jersey represented by Teamsters Local 469. Forty workers will join the union.

“Garden Society employees clearly expressed their desire for Local 469’s representation in securing a strong, well-deserved contract,” stated Michael Broderick, President of Local 469. “Given the nascent and expanding nature of New Jersey’s cannabis industry, it’s crucial that we advocate for high-quality jobs offering fair compensation, safe working conditions, comprehensive healthcare, and a dignified retirement. Garden Society employees, and all cannabis workers in New Jersey, deserve this. Local 469 is proud to support them in this endeavor.”

Following a three-year commitment to organizing the cannabis sector, the union has secured over 30 collective bargaining agreements. The Garden Society agreement reflects the union’s successful expansion within cannabis cultivation and manufacturing.

“The cannabis industry is new and unpredictable; by establishing the stability of a Teamsters contract, we are creating a path towards successful careers within this field,” explained Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division.

“I’m optimistic about the future with union representation,” said Beverly Hayes, a Garden Society worker who voted to join Local 469. “We’re on the path to achieving what we deserve!”

Teamsters Local 469 represents over 4,000 workers across Northern New Jersey.

Contact:
Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877

SOURCE Teamsters Local 469