Cannabis Cultivation Workers at Ascend Wellness Strike In Illinois Over Unfair Labor Practices

Over 300 Ascend Wellness employees at the company’s cultivation site in Barry, Illinois, went on strike last week, alleging unfair labor practices, WGEM reports.

“We have filed charges against the company for violation of the National Labor Relations Act. They have failed to bargain in good faith with the union by refusing to bargain over key and mandatory items of bargaining, they have fired one of our bargaining committee members during bargaining, we also have a ULP over that and we are set to file more ULPs over intimidation for workers.” — Kyle Bollinger, Teamsters Local 916 Vice President, in the report

Workers walked off the job last Thursday, saying the company refused to negotiate for a fair contract for over a year. Many of them picketed outside the building after leaving, according to the report.

Due to the size of the facility and the number of workers involved, the strike could cause major disruptions to the state’s adult-use cannabis supply chain.

Matthew McKenna, the Vice President of Public Affairs at Ascend Wellness Holdings, told WGEM in a statement:

“We can confirm there is a work stoppage at our Barry, Illinois cultivation facility, which remains open and continues to operate. Ascend Wellness Holdings values and respects the employees at our Barry facility and has bargained in good faith throughout this process. Our last, best and final offer includes a strong economic package and remains on the table while the union reviews it. We are disappointed employees were not given the opportunity to vote on the proposal and continue to urge the union to allow a ratification vote. We remain committed to reaching a fair agreement.”