UFCW, America’s Cannabis Union, welcomes the passage of Connecticut’s Senate Bill 1201, which will legalize recreational, adult-use of Cannabis in the state, including its sale and safe regulation. The bill was signed into state law by Governor Ned Lamont on June 22, 2021 and will go into effect beginning July 1st. With this law, Connecticut becomes the 19th state to legalize recreational marijuana.
UFCW Local 371 and UFCW Local 919 have been leading voices in the push to strengthen Connecticut cannabis jobs as the industry expands across the state. Experts say the Connecticut adult-use marijuana market could generate $250 million in sales in the first full year and $725 million in the fourth year.
UFCW Local 371 President Ronald Petronella and UFCW Local 919 President Mark Espinosa released the following joint statement:
“Connecticut working families need an economy that puts them first. With this bill, Connecticut can create thousands of good-paying cannabis jobs that will strengthen our communities and help to speed our economic recovery as we emerge from the pandemic.
“States across the Northeast have already tapped into the economic promise of cannabis. Creating a strong cannabis market here in Connecticut with clear regulations that prioritize good wages and worker safety is essential to ensuring we build the foundation for long-term economic growth in the industry. As the unions for thousands of Connecticut frontline workers, we look forward to working to create thousands of good paying, family sustaining cannabis jobs here in Connecticut.”
As the Cannabis industry continues to grow in Connecticut and many other states, UFCW – the union for cannabis workers – is proud to support good jobs with living wages, comprehensive benefits and a voice in the workplace, all backed by a union contract.
Wherever cannabis is legalized, the UFCW is committed to organizing and building a successful industry with a thriving, diverse and skilled workforce.
