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  • Washington Cannabis Grow Workers Win New Union Rights!

    Big news for cannabis workers in Washington: Thanks to a major legislative win, cannabis farm workers in our state now have the same collective bargaining rights and workplace protections as other agricultural workers in the state. This is a historic milestone for our industry and a huge step forward for worker power. According to a recent article in Northwest Labor Press , starting July 27, 2025, cannabis growers across Washington will have enforceable rights to unionize, organize for better conditions, and negotiate strong contracts—finally leveling the playing field for workers in this growing industry. What changed? House Bill 1141 , signed by Governor Bob Ferguson on April 22, puts the Washington Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) in charge of collective bargaining for agricultural cannabis workers. Previously, cannabis farm employees weren’t covered by key enforcement protections under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). With this new law, if an employer tries to retaliate against workers for unionizing, PERC can investigate and issue penalties or back-pay orders to make workers whole. Why This Matters Equity & fairness : Cannabis growers, many of whom are migrant and agricultural workers, now have the same legal rights and protections as other farmworkers, including the ability to fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, and job security. Stronger Organizing:  With PERC’s backing, cannabis workers can organize without fear of retaliation, knowing there’s real legal support behind their efforts. Setting a Standard:  Washington becomes one of the first states to close this loophole and set an example for other states with large cannabis agriculture sectors. ✊ UFCW 367: Leading the Way for Cannabis Workers In the mid-2010s, UFCW Local 367 was at the forefront of organizing cannabis workers in Washington, setting the bar for fair pay, job protections, and safer workplaces industry-wide. After several years where too many cannabis workers lacked union representation, UFCW Local 367 is back, stronger than ever, and proud to partner with UFCW International’s Cannabis Workers Rising campaign. Now, with new legal protections in place, there are more opportunities than ever to organize non-union cannabis workplaces, negotiate stronger contracts, and ensure every cannabis worker in South Puget Sound and Southwest Washington has the support, security, and voice they deserve. Interested in Organizing Your Cannabis Workplace? If you work in the cannabis industry, whether on a grow site, in processing, or in a dispensary, and want to learn more about your rights or how to organize your workplace, UFCW 367 is here for you! Our union organizers are ready to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and connect you with other cannabis workers who are building real power on the job. Contact a UFCW 367 Union Organizer today: 📞 Call:  253-589-0367 📧   Complete our quick interest form This is a powerful step forward for cannabis workers in Washington. Congratulations to every worker and UFCW member who made this victory possible. Together, we’re building a stronger future for all! — The UFCW 367 Organizing Department Read the full story: ➡️ Cannabis grow workers get union rights (NW Labor Press, July 15, 2025)

  • Tentative Agreement Reached – 2025 Grocery, Meat & General Merchandise Contracts

    We’re proud to announce that after months of hard work and member-driven action, your UFCW 367 Bargaining Team has reached a Tentative Agreement (TA)  covering Grocery, Meat, and General Merchandise workers. This agreement reflects the priorities that members have raised at the table, including improvements in wages, safety, and scheduling rights, and demonstrates the strength of our union when we stand united. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO VIEW THE FULL VOTE DOCUMENT 👇👇 What’s Next? We’ll be holding a ratification vote using ElectionBuddy electronic voting  for the first time ever, with both in-person and online voting options available. In-Person Voting: Thursday, July 17 📍 Greater Tacoma Convention Center (Tacoma) & Washington State Labor Council (Olympia) Online Voting: July 18 – July 20 (Multiple time slots available) 📝 Register to vote: 👉 Register to vote here Also, make sure we have your  current contact information  to receive your voter ID number. Together, we made this progress possible—and now it’s time to cast your vote and make your voice count. #WageUpStaffUp #FairContractNOW #SouthSoundRising #UFCW367 #MemberDriven367

  • July 1st Grocery Bargaining Update

    Our member-led  negotiating team is making serious progress at the table! During our most recent session, we stayed at the table late into the night, until 1:00 AM, pushing hard for real gains. We’ve made significant headway on core issues, including wages, strengthening our meat apprenticeship program, and more. While this is a big step forward, we’re not done yet. There are still critical items to resolve before we can bring members a tentative agreement. UFCW 367 remains committed to full transparency; every member deserves access to the full details of what’s on the table before  a vote is called. 📢 Stay engaged. The next few days will be crucial. #WageUpStaffUp #SouthSoundRising #UFCW367 #MemberDriven367

  • Marlene’s Bargaining Update – June 25, 2025

    UFCW 367 and Marlene’s Market & Deli returned to the bargaining table on June 25, 2025, for another productive session as we continue working toward a strong first contract for Marlene’s workers in Tacoma. Progress was made on several key issues that reflect the priorities and concerns members have raised throughout this process. Highlights from the Session: 🔹 Fair Wages, Seniority, and Training We had in-depth discussions about establishing a more objective wage scale —one that isn’t based on merit alone. We also covered the purpose of seniority in the workplace, grievance timelines, and ensuring proper training for all staff. 🔹 Retirement Benefits We made significant movement on retirement language , including eligibility for a 401(k) plan for employees who work at least 1,000 hours per year. 🔹 Tentative Agreements Reached We reached Tentative Agreements on the following items: Offering additional hours to current employees before hiring new ones A 60-day trial period for workers switching roles, with the ability to return to their previous position if it remains vacant Dedicated time during New Hire Orientation for the Union to meet with new employees Shift trading between workers with a clear process in place 📄 Download the latest proposals here: Employer Proposal Union Proposal What’s Next: 📅 Upcoming Bargaining Dates July 18 August 12 & 15 We’re committed to reaching a Tentative Agreement by the end of August. 🤝 Next CAT (Contract Action Team) Meetings Sunday, August 3 Your voice at the table matters. We’ll continue to fight for a contract that reflects your hard work, your values, and your future.

  • Fighting for a Better Future: Support the Workers' Bill of Rights

    UFCW 367 is proud to lead the fight for bold, transformative change in Tacoma through the Workers' Bill of Rights (WBR) . As covered in The News Tribune , we’ve officially launched a campaign to gather signatures and place this powerful initiative on the November ballot. The WBR would raise Tacoma’s minimum wage to $20 an hour—phased in overtime for small and mid-sized businesses—while also guaranteeing fair scheduling, more access to full-time hours, and stronger workplace safety protections. Our members face these real, everyday issues, and this initiative is our collective answer. 📣 We need your help to make it happen. We’re aiming to gather at least 8,000 signatures in Tacoma  and 15,000 in Olympia  by early July. If you're ready to support working people and raise the standard of living in our communities, now is the time to get involved. 📰 Read the full article  to learn more about the initiative, the opposition, and why this fight matters: 👉 The News Tribune: UFCW 367 Launches Worker’s Bill of Rights Campaign 🌐 Get involved at   southsoundrising.org When working people rise, the whole community rises with us.

  • The Impact of Voting: Why Every Vote Counts

    With Election Day fast approaching on November 5th, it's crucial to remember the significant impact that each and every vote can have on shaping our future. Despite the common myth that a single vote doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things, the reality is quite the opposite. Whether it's a local council election or a national presidential race, your vote carries weight and can sway the results in unexpected ways. Five Compelling Reasons to Cast Your Vote 1. Actively voting protects your voter rights. Voting is not just a privilege but a fundamental right that ensures your voice is heard in the democratic process. By exercising your right to vote, you actively participate in upholding and safeguarding your voter rights. 2. Your daily life and your family's future are impacted. The decisions made by elected officials can directly influence various aspects of our daily lives, from healthcare and education to job opportunities and environmental policies. By voting, you have a say in shaping the future for yourself and your loved ones. 3. One vote can decide it all. History has shown us numerous instances where elections were decided by a handful of votes. Each vote cast has the potential to tip the scales in favor of one candidate over another, making your participation in the electoral process more crucial than ever. 4. Decide how your money is spent. Elected officials determine how public funding is allocated and utilized. By voting, you have a say in how taxpayer money is spent on critical areas such as infrastructure, social welfare programs, and public services that impact your community directly. 5. Be a voice for those who cannot vote. Many individuals, past and present, have fought tirelessly for the right to vote. By casting your ballot, you not only honor their legacy but also become a voice for marginalized communities, ensuring that their interests and concerns are represented in the democratic process. Check Your Voter Registration Status Today! As we gear up for Election Day, it's paramount that you confirm your voter registration status and ensure that your voice is counted. Visit www.votewa.gov to verify your registration details and make sure you are ready to exercise your civic duty on November 5th. Remember, voting is a powerful tool for driving change and shaping the future of our society. Every vote counts, and each one contributes to building a more inclusive and democratic community for all. So, let's make our voices heard and stand together as changemakers in this upcoming election. Imagine the impact we can create when each vote is considered, every voice is valued, and change is championed by all.

  • Reflecting on 2024: A Message from the President

    A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT HINES As we welcome the new year, it’s important to reflect on our progress as a Union. Since I began serving as your president in 2021, I have learned that success and growth are rarely a straight line. Building a member-driven organization capable of challenging corporate greed comes with its share of challenges. We face resistance from employers digging in their heels, allies choosing compromise over confrontation, and even internal pressures to maintain the status quo. But there is no growth without change, and there is no change without courage. UFCW Local 367, with just 20 Union Hall staff and 21 Executive Board members, continues to punch above its weight. In 2024, our primary focus was on organizing a militant minority of 5% worksite leaders in preparation for next spring’s big grocery negotiations. I’m proud to report that we have surpassed this goal, and member engagement is at an all-time high. Representatives have been running MET meetings throughout our jurisdiction, while our organizers have spearheaded the Workers’ Bill of Rights policy to ensure better scheduling, safer workplaces, and higher wages. Through our coalition “South Sound Rising,” we have expanded our reach and impact. This year, we launched an Organizing School to equip members with the knowledge and skills necessary to build a powerful working class in our region. Together, we are creating the momentum needed to push back against corporate overreach and secure a brighter future for workers. This commitment to progress extends to our Union’s infrastructure. This past October, UFCW Local 367 closed on the historic Fire St ation #4 in d owntown Tacoma. This new location provides not only immediate space but also room to grow, along with tenant income to support our initiatives. The attached warehouse has been approved for conversion into a 500-seat auditorium with an attached kitchen and classroom for a revised Meat Apprenticeship program. We anticipate the completion of the auditorium in phase one of the project by next fall. This new hall and auditorium will add tremendous value to UFCW 367, serving as a hub of union activity and a beacon for the labor movement in the area. One of the most significant challenges this year was the proposed Albertsons-Kroger merger. UFCW Local 367, along with allies across Washington State, fought tirelessly to protect our members and communities from its harmful impacts. This merger threatened to reduce competition, drive up grocery prices, and limit shopping options for Washington families. Thanks to the efforts of Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson and the solidarity of unions and community members, a King County judge issued a permanent injunction blocking the merger. The judge’s decision declared the merger unlawful, emphasizing that the competition between Kroger and Albertsons benefits Washington consumers and workers. This victory is a monumental win for our members and all Washingtonians. It reinforces the power of standing together to challenge corporate consolidation and fight for fair competition that protects workers and families alike. As we look ahead, there are more exciting announcements on the horizon that I can’t wait to share. For now, I wish you all a safe and joyful holiday season spent with family, friends, and co-workers. I’ll see you in the stores in 2025. Happy Holidays! Michael Hines President, UFCW Local 367

  • Marlene’s Market & Deli Workers Move Toward Union Representation with UFCW 367

    Workers at Marlene’s Market & Deli  in Tacoma  are taking steps to join UFCW Local 367 , filing for a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) election  to seek union representation. This comes after recent changes by the store's new owner, Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins , a California-based chain that acquired Marlene’s Tacoma and Federal Way locations in November 2024 . Employees cite reduced store hours, decreased paid time off, and changes to healthcare benefits as key reasons for organizing. The decision to close the store on Sundays has also impacted both worker schedules and customer shopping habits. “We need a strong voice and deserve livable wages and affordable, quality healthcare,” said Monica Poole , a 10-year employee at the Tacoma store. Workers like Joe Kennedy  and Rabeca Reynolds  also emphasized the need for better pay, improved training, and a stronger role in workplace decisions . The unionization efforts reflect UFCW 367’s ongoing mission to support workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Read more about the organizing efforts in the Tacoma News Tribune article here .

  • Bargaining Update: Marlene’s Market & Deli

    Progress Toward a Strong First Contract UFCW 367 and Marlene’s Market & Deli returned to the bargaining table on June 9, 2025 , continuing negotiations for a first union contract  covering workers at the Tacoma location. We’re making steady progress toward securing meaningful rights, protections, and improvements—and we’re committed to keeping you updated every step of the way. 📄 Key Bargaining Updates UFCW 367 Full Proposal We’ve shared a working draft of our tentative agreement. This document outlines critical provisions, including: Union recognition Just cause protections Guaranteed wages Paid time off for all hours worked And more Employer Full Proposal:  A full proposal from the employer has been presented, which we are currently reviewing and assessing with the bargaining team. Click below to review the documents: We will continue fighting for a fair first contract that reflects the hard work, values, and voices of every Marlene’s worker. Next Steps: Stay Engaged Upcoming Contract Action Team Meeting 📅 Date:  Sunday, June 29 ⏰ Time:  1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Location:  UFCW 367 Union Hall222 E 26th Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 Your participation is essential as we fight for a fair contract that reflects the hard work, values, and voices of every Marlene’s worker. 📞 Questions or Want to Get Involved? Contact Union Representative, Patty Estes 📱Call/Text: (253) 906-8354 More updates to come soon— stay union strong!

  • June 26 Bargaining Update

    Groundbreaking Progress Won by Member Action Big news out of UFCW 367’s tenth bargaining session: After late-night negotiations, the UFCW 367’s Pierce County Grocery and Meat Bargaining Team has tentative agreements on significant improvements to hours, scheduling, and workplace safety. These breakthroughs are the direct result of months of action, advocacy, and solidarity from workers and community supporters alike. ✅ No more hour cuts due to new hires ✅ Stronger rights for current employees to receive hours before new hires ✅ NO mandatory self-checkout ratios , 1 member per 10 machines? Not on our watch. ✅ The strongest safety committee language in the region , now store-level staffing concerns must be addressed within 10 days (not quarterly!) Read the full Staffing & Seniority/Scheduling Tentative Agreement (6.26.25) below 👇 These are major wins, not just for our members, but for the standards we’re setting across the South Sound. It was bold member action that made this breakthrough possible.  From packing the room at Open Bargaining sessions, to gathering signatures for the Workers’ Bill of Rights, to overwhelmingly authorizing an Unfair Labor Practice strike, your dedication and organizing have made all the difference. Because of these tentative agreements, we are withdrawing our Unfair Labor Practice charges . That means no ULP strike, for now . But we’re not done yet. There’s still more to fight for! Let’s stay focused, stay united, and keep the momentum going. 📄 Review the Tentative Agreement👇👇👇 What’s Next: 📅 Next Closed Bargaining Session: July 1 Let’s keep showing employers what we’re capable of when we stand together. #WageUpStaffUp #UFCW367 #FairContractNow #UnionStrong #MemberDriven367 #SouthSoundRising

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