This bill seeks to extend labor rights and protections to cannabis workers in New Jersey, ensuring they have the same rights as other private sector and public employees. It amends existing law to empower the New Jersey State Board of Mediation to address unfair labor practices specific to cannabis employment, particularly for workers not covered by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). The bill outlines prohibited practices for cannabis employers, such as interfering with employees' rights and refusing to negotiate in good faith, while also establishing similar prohibitions for organizations representing cannabis workers. Additionally, it mandates that cannabis employers facilitate access to employee organizations for representation and collective bargaining, including notifying these organizations of new hires and allowing payroll deductions for membership dues.

Furthermore, the legislation increases penalties for employer non-compliance from a maximum of $1,000 to $5,000 per day and clarifies that provisions regarding private employers not subject to the NLRA apply to employees of such employers, regardless of NLRA coverage. It also allows employee organizations to petition for employee contact information and mandates that employers grant access for meetings in the workplace. The bill ensures that once an organization is designated as a representative, it can address grievances and conduct meetings on the employer's premises, while also granting cannabis worker organizations the right to engage in public campaigns regarding disputes with employers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:13A-5.1