On Tuesday, May 11, Union Representative Hugh Giordano attended a Toms River City Council meeting in response to a proposed ordinance to ban all cannabis sales. Because of the proposed ordinance, in addition to Mr. Giordano, many citizens showed up to express their support for potential businesses. The public support was so strong, council members chose to not vote on the ordinance at the meeting, instead opting to form a committee to learn more about the issue before making a final decision. The vote is now rescheduled for the June 8 council meeting.

Hugh’s defense of the cannabis industry and was later reported by Jersey Shore Online:

Hugh Giordano of Blackwood, New Jersey, appeared in his role with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, which would be representing cannabis workers.

“This (ban) is a direct attack on working people,” he said. These careers offer good pay and benefits and will grow the middle class. Also, he said that if legal marijuana isn’t available here, people have illegal alternatives.

“You shouldn’t have to drive to get medical marijuana when you can buy fentanyl here,” he said.

Read the full article on Jersey Shore Online’s website.

While the postponement of the vote leaves one cautiously optimistic, make no mistake: this does not mean that the council will ultimately vote in favor of cannabis businesses on June 8.

Watch Hugh’s full statement:

 

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Commitment

UFCW Local 152 is not new to fighting on behalf of the cannabis industry up and down the Garden State.

On a national level, the United Food and Commercial Workers represent workers in both medical and recreational cannabis-related industries. UFCW Local 152 is committed to standing with cannabis workers in our area to not only create good jobs, but also represent them so that their employers pay good wages, good benefits, and fair treatment in a safe work environment. Discover more about the Cannabis Campaign in our area and our efforts to support workers in the industry.

If you work in the Cannabis industry and want to join UFCW Local 152, please contact us via our Union Interest form.