On April 11, about 500 members of UFCW Locals 5, 135, 324, 770, 1167, and 1428 who work at STIIIZY cannabis dispensaries across California ratified a landmark contract that strengthens wages and benefits.
The three-year contract, which was ratified by an overwhelming margin of the members, includes the highest starting wages in the industry, expanded paid sick leave, guaranteed health insurance for part-time employees, and a fairer attendance policy. The deal sets a new benchmark for the cannabis industry, with starting wages of $19.50/hour in Southern California and $20.50/hour in the San Francisco Bay Area — the highest in the cannabis unionized sector. Workers also secured 64 hours of annual paid sick leave (up from 56) in Southern California and a more equitable attendance system designed to reduce turnover while maintaining service quality.
Other key provisions in the contract include:
• Health insurance for part-timers: Eligibility now requires just 20 hours/week, down from previous thresholds.
• Stronger job security: Guaranteed minimum hours aligned with benefit eligibility.
• Policy influence: A formal union-company partnership to advocate for stable industry regulations statewide.
“This contract shows that STIIIZY is a company worth working for—it makes the job more enjoyable with better wages,” said Andy Lallu, who is a floor leader at STIIIZY in Los Angeles. “Having improved health benefits for everyone, including part-timers, feels fair. We’re setting the standard for the entire industry.”
