Oregon voters approve Measure 119, paving the way for cannabis unionization

Published 8:15 pm Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Oregon voters on Tuesday appear to have approved Measure 119, a new law that requires cannabis businesses in the state to remain neutral if their employees attempt to unionize, based on early election results released Tuesday, Nov. 5.

With the measure’s apparent passage, Oregon joins several other states which have adopted similar union-supportive mandates for the cannabis industry.

Early results released at 8 p.m., election night showed the “Yes” campaign winning with 55% of the vote. The “No” campaign had 44.8%.

Measure 119 proponents campaigned on labor rights and safety issues within Oregon’s growing cannabis industry. Under the new law, cannabis businesses will now need to submit agreements to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission as part of their applications for new licenses or renewals. These agreements require cannabis employers to remain neutral if workers begin unionization talks.

Opponents of the measure said the law could raise operating costs, potentially hurting businesses in an industry they say is already vulnerable.

Measure 119 is set to take effect in 30 days, meaning cannabis businesses must quickly comply with the new regulations or risk penalties, including fines or the suspension of their licenses.

“Something that’s rampant in the industry is toxic chemicals, unchecked safety concerns and lack of proper PPE. Employers often cut corners,” said Miles Eshaia, communications coordinator for the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555. “They compromise both worker and consumer safety, and you can avoid all that with a collectively bargained agreement and a collectively bargained safety agreement.”

Oregon joins California, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and Virginia, which have similar requirements for cannabis businesses.