| Update Applicable to: | Effective date |
| All covered employers in the cannabis industry in Oregon | December 5, 2024 |
What happened?
On November 5, 2024, Oregon voters approved Measure 119, which would make it easier to unionize in the cannabis industry and require employers to sign “labor peace agreements (LPA).”
Quick Summary:
- Measure 119 applies to all cannabis businesses requiring a license, including growers, retailers, processors, and labs, requiring them to sign a labor peace agreement (LPA) with a union to receive a license. The measure exempts producers and wholesalers.
- It mandates that businesses remain neutral in employee communications about union activities and allows the OLCC to impose fines or licensing penalties for non-compliance.
- Starting December 5, all businesses licensed by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) must have a License Protection Agreement (LPA) to get a new or renewed license.
What are the details?
- Oregon Measure 119, the United for Cannabis Workers Act, requires cannabis businesses to sign a labor peace agreement (LPA) with a bona fide labor organization, ensuring employer neutrality during union organizing efforts. The measure is part of a broader effort to protect workers from safety concerns, toxic chemicals, and lack of proper equipment
- Starting December 5, If the LPA ends, the business must:
- Notify the OLCC within 10 business days.
- Sign a new LPA within 30 days.
Failing to comply may result in fines or loss of license.
Business Considerations
- Employers should prepare for the December 5 deadline by securing an LPA for any new or renewal license applications. Carefully review the LPA before executing it to ensure it does not exceed state law requirements and avoid unnecessary obligations.
- Employers should ensure that any terminated LPA is reported to the OLCC within 10 days and a new agreement is signed within 30 days to prevent fines or license suspension.
Source References
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