Dockside Cannabis has initiated its first contract negotiations as part of a push for better working conditions and benefits for employees. In early April, the bargaining team took employee feedback from a survey to develop proposals aimed at improving wages, paid time off, scheduling, holiday policies, job security, health and safety standards, and benefits.
The first negotiation session took place last week, where the team presented a comprehensive draft contract to management. Each proposal was discussed in detail, clarifying the rationale behind the requests. Key topics included adjustments to wages and paid time off, improvements to work hours and scheduling, recognition of holidays, and the establishment of just cause for job protection.
The bargaining team is now awaiting Dockside management’s initial counteroffer, anticipated during the next negotiation session scheduled for June 2. This session will be critical as both sides work toward a mutually agreeable contract.
Additionally, a union meeting for Dockside employees is planned for May 20 from 12 PM to 1 PM via Zoom. This meeting will educate members about the bargaining process and outline the proposals made thus far. Employees are encouraged to participate to increase their engagement in securing the first contract. The meeting can be accessed through the provided link, with Meeting ID: 857 1025 6019 and Passcode: 253754.
In related news, a significant achievement for cannabis workers statewide has come with the passage of ESHB 1141. This legislation, which allows cannabis agricultural workers to organize their workplaces, has successfully passed both the House and the Senate. It is set to be signed by the Governor on April 23, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for labor rights within the cannabis sector. This victory reflects years of advocacy aimed at ensuring that cannabis workers receive the same protections and organizing rights available to other sectors.
The Dockside negotiations and the new legislation are part of a broader movement to improve labor conditions across the cannabis industry, ensuring workers can advocate for their rights and receive fair treatment.
