**UFCW LOCAL 367: WASHINGTON’S ORIGINAL CANNABIS UNION IS BACK!** UFCW Local 367 is proud to announce an incredible milestone: “We are back where we belong — leading the way for cannabis workers in Washington State! This marks a historic step forward for our union, reflecting the tireless work we’ve done, the progress we’ve made, and the exciting direction we are headed.” – Michael Hines, President UFCW 367 In the mid-2010s, UFCW Local 367 stood at the forefront of organizing cannabis workers. With new laws regulating both medical and recreational cannabis, we seized the opportunity to expand our union and build real collective bargaining power for workers in this emerging industry. Together with the UFCW’s *Cannabis Workers Rising* campaign, we secured dozens of neutrality agreements, organized multiple shops, and negotiated the first contracts that set industry standards. Tacoma quickly became the hub of green activity in Washington State, gaining recognition for its leadership and momentum. However, growth often brings challenges. Industry consolidation took hold as small operators gave way to larger corporations, and with them came anti-union tactics and union-busting law firms. The industry became increasingly hostile to workers and labor organizing efforts. Amid these challenges, prior UFCW 367 leadership relinquished all cannabis jurisdiction to Seattle’s UFCW local, leaving cannabis workers in Pierce, Mason, Lewis, Thurston, Pacific, and Grays Harbor counties without representation for six years. But that was then. And this is *now. * When President Michael Hines took office in August 2021, he made it clear: UFCW Local 367 would reclaim its place in the cannabis industry. President Hines began by engaging in discussions with UFCW International and Seattle’s local leadership to restore jurisdiction. When diplomacy didn’t deliver results, he doubled down, penning a decisive letter to the international leadership that highlighted the lack of organizing, representation, and support for cannabis workers in our region. For more than three years, he refused to lose sight of the goal, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the belief that Local 367 should never have relinquished jurisdiction without a fight. And that fight has paid off. UFCW International President Marc Perrone has officially restored cannabis jurisdiction to UFCW Local 367. With this victory, we are renewing our commitment to organizing cannabis workers, building collective power, and fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect on the job. We are once again partnering with the International’s *Cannabis Workers Rising* campaign to provide dedicated resources for this effort. UFCW Local 367 has established a robust Organizing Department, including a Director, Organizer, and two dedicated union members on leave to support this groundbreaking work. “Through collaboration with the South Sound Organizing School, we will be training new organizers and empowering workers with the skills and strategies needed to grow our union and secure victories in this evolving industry”, said President Hines upon signing the agreement restoring Cannabis jurisdiction to 367. This is an exciting time for our Union. Together, we will lead the charge in ensuring that cannabis workers across our region have a voice, a union, and a brighter future. For more information or to get involved, contact our Organizing Department today. Let’s continue to make history as Washington’s Original Cannabis Union.