Over 300 members of UFCW Local 135 who work at nine March and Ash cannabis dispensaries in Southern California ratified a new contract on May 15.
This contract marks the second agreement between UFCW Local 135 and March and Ash. Negotiations between UFCW Local 135’s bargaining committee, which was comprised of rank and file members of March and Ash, and the company began on April 9. After weeks of discussions, a tentative agreement was struck on May 8, leading to the contract vote on May 15.
The three-year contract, which began on May 17, 2024, and ends on May 17, 2027, features several key improvements, including raises for all and significant wage increases for many; a simplified wage scale with annual raises; and an unreducible wage reopener with consideration for a language differential. The contract also provides members with a five-minute lunchtime grace period and enhanced paid sick leave benefits that include 48 hours of paid sick leave (up from 40), with up to 96 bankable hours. Additionally, statewide accretion language has been included, encompassing UFCW Locals 5, 8, 135, 324, 770, 1167, 1428, and 1442, making this contract cover the entirety of California.
“I am incredibly proud of the dedication demonstrated by our bargaining committee members throughout the negotiation process,” said UFCW Local 135 Secretary-Treasurer Grant Tom. “This was their first time at the bargaining table, and they excelled in representing the interests of their fellow workers. Their participation was instrumental in securing the gains outlined in this contract.”
“It’s encouraging to see fellow employees having each other’s back and getting together with our cannabis union to stay solidified towards our common goal of making a living wage and having job security,” said March and Ash employee Dina Calvarese, who served on the bargaining committee.