Cannabis Workers Stand for Fair Treatment at Herbal Wellness Center
Cannabis Workers Demand Fair Contract Immediately
Cannabis dispensary workers have taken a stand at Herbal Wellness Center in Columbus. They are protesting the company's unfair labor practices (ULPs) by going on strike, aiming to secure a contract that guarantees their rights and benefits.
Tony Jones, President of Teamsters Local 413, remarked, "There's no reason the employer can't provide these workers with what they're demanding — annual wage increases, seniority, and protection from unjust discipline. These are standards that employers have agreed to not just at dispensaries, but everywhere that the Teamsters have a contract." The demand for a fair contract has been echoed throughout the industry.
The workers joined Local 413 in 2023 when the dispensary operated as Strawberry Fields. Following the acquisition by Vext Science, negotiations have stalled significantly. The company has even sought to petition the National Labor Relations Board for a re-run election after the buyout, a request that was ultimately denied.
Kismet Royce, lead budtender and a member of the Local 413 negotiating committee expressed, "Vext Science's stall tactics are an insult to everyone at this dispensary. My co-workers and I are stronger than we've ever been, and we'll be out on strike for as long as it takes to get a fair contract." Their determination highlights the resilience of the workforce in ensuring their rights are recognized.
This strike marks the second protest by Cannabis Teamsters within just two months. Teamsters Local 776 has also been actively engaging in a ULP strike at a Green Thumb Industries (GTI) location in York, Pennsylvania since September. This demonstrates a growing movement within the cannabis industry advocating for equitable labor practices.
Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, stated, "Vext has chosen to make their business less stable by refusing to bargain fairly with our members. Instead of hiring scabs, they need to prioritize bargaining in good faith toward a first contract." The focus on stability reflects the workers' desire for a reliable work environment free from exploitation.
Teamsters Local 413 represents workers in various industries across central Ohio. Their solidarity showcases the importance of collective bargaining and union representation in securing the rights of workers in today's economic landscape. For more information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official Teamsters Local 413 website.
Contact:
Matt McQuaid, (771) 241-0015
SOURCE Teamsters Local 413
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the strike at Herbal Wellness Center?
The strike is a response to the company's unfair labor practices and the demand for a fair contract that includes wage increases and job protections.
Who is leading the strike?
The strike is being led by the workers organized with Teamsters Local 413, highlighting their call for equitable labor standards.
What are the main demands of the workers?
Workers are demanding annual wage increases, seniority rights, and protections from unjust disciplinary actions.
How long do workers plan to strike?
Workers have stated they will continue to strike as long as necessary to secure a fair contract.
What other strikes are related to this movement?
Recently, Teamsters Local 776 has been on strike at a Green Thumb Industries location, showing a broader trend of workers advocating for their rights in the cannabis industry.
