Monthly Archives: January 2024

On Dec. 28, cannabis workers at Advanced Grow Labs in West Haven, Conn., made history by ratifying their first union contract with UFCW Local 919. This ratification marks the first cannabis union contract in Connecticut’s history. These workers voted to join our union family last March.

The three-year contract includes guaranteed wage increases of up to 25 percent over the life of the agreement, as well as increased holiday pay, secured retirement and health insurance, increased safety measures, and on the job protection.

“I am proud to be a part of the first cannabis union in Connecticut,” said Advanced Grow Labs Production Technician Alanna Daniels. “This has been a huge milestone for the industry in the state and our company. I hope other workers can come together like we have.”

“This is groundbreaking,” said Advanced Grow Labs Harvest Technician Christopher McKenzie. “We have a voice at work now and a better future coming now that we have a union contract.”

“It feels good to be represented and to have a contract that will secure our jobs,” said Advanced Grow Labs Laboratory Technician Amber Sampiere. “This is a new and developing industry and we are at the forefront of creating a better future for cannabis workers.”

“The workers at Advanced Grow Labs made history by negotiating and ratifying the very first cannabis contract in Connecticut,” said UFCW Local 919 Director of Organizing Emily Sabo. “We know their hard work will inspire more workers to form their unions and pave the way for a better Connecticut cannabis industry.”

Over 100 members of UFCW Local 152 who work at Johanna Foods in Flemington, N.J. ratified a new contract on Dec. 13 that strengthens wages and protects benefits. The workers at this facility produce yogurts, as well as other products.

This ratification follows weeks of negotiations, including a strike authorization. The strong display of solidarity among members of this unit, coupled with a public awareness campaign supported by the International Union, helped to deliver this landmark agreement.

The new six-year contract, which is retroactive to February 2023, includes a substantial retroactive wage increase for this unit. The contract also includes a general wage increase for the life of the contract that equates to $4.70 per hour, which is the largest general wage increase in the local’s history with Johanna Foods.

The contract allows members to maintain their union health benefits with no employee cost share for the life of the agreement. The contract also includes language to allow for a more streamlined vacation selection process that will help these workers plan their time off. In addition, the contract includes substantial contribution increases to members’ retirement savings to help them better prepare for a more comfortable retirement.