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[PRESS RELEASE] – LOS ANGELES, April 14, 2025 – On April 11, cannabis workers at STIIIZY, represented by six United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) local unions in California, voted to overwhelmingly ratify a landmark three-year contract. This historic contract saw the workers winning higher starting wages, expanded paid sick leave, guaranteed health insurance for part-time employees, and a fairer attendance policy. The new contract covers approximately 500 members across California.
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 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 victories 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, 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.”
“This new contract gives us real job security—it means we have a protected, stable work environment,” said Candie Herrera, a budtender at STIIIZY in downtown Los Angeles. “I love my job because I can leave work at work—no stress carrying it home. And being part of the first bargaining team was an amazing experience. It’s awesome that we were able to reach a fair agreement without having to get into a lengthy labor dispute.”
“It’s great that we secured more paid sick time—we’re essential workers handling cash and exposed to risks every day,” said Xochilt Stoke, an inventory employee at an STIIIZY cannabis shop in Oxnard. “Having more paid sick hours means we can recover properly and avoid spreading illness at work.”
The agreement, ratified by cannabis workers from UFCW Locals 5, 135, 324, 770, 1167 and 1428 in votes held April 7–11, 2025, will remain in effect through Jan. 24, 2028.
