Ascend Aberdeen Workers Secure First Teamsters Contract in Maryland

The Facts -

Historic Unionization in Maryland's Cannabis Sector

In a groundbreaking move, employees at Ascend in Aberdeen, Maryland, have successfully negotiated their first collective bargaining agreement, a notable achievement as they become the state's inaugural cannabis workers to operate under a Teamsters contract.

According to Sean Cedenio, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 570, “These workers stuck together and were fearless in advocating for themselves during this process.” He emphasized the potential for this agreement to act as a template for similar establishments statewide.

The Teamsters, known for their robust history of negotiating formidable agreements in both Illinois and Michigan, have secured provisions in this new contract that include wage hikes, enhanced job security, improved paid time off, and crucial safety measures.

Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, remarked on the trend of cannabis workers seeking Teamsters representation, stating, “More and more cannabis workers are rapidly realizing that a Teamsters contract brings the stability they deserve in an ever-changing industry.”

Dispensary Associate Lead Ryan Bennett, a member of Local 570, echoed this sentiment, expressing, “Workers everywhere deserve quality wages and working conditions.” He added, “As the cannabis industry rapidly grows, so should the prosperity of the workers who make it successful.”

Representing a diverse array of workers in the Baltimore region, Teamsters Local 570 continues to champion the cause for equitable working environments. For further details, visit https://www.team570.org/.

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