Unionized STIIIZY Workers in California Ratify Landmark Three-Year Contract With Highest Starting Wages in the Industry
Unionized STIIIZY Workers in California Ratify Landmark Three-Year Contract With Highest Starting Wages in the Industry
The Agreement Sets New Industry Standards For Union Cannabis Workers Across the Country
Buena Park, CA – On Friday, 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.
“Stiiizy workers are proud that we have ratified a contract that places Stiiizy as a leader in the cannabis industry and provides workers with what they need,” said Joseph Andrade, DSA. “Higher wages, improved health benefits, more paid sick hours and guaranteed minimum hours will make such a difference in our lives.”
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 January 24, 2028.
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