| Dispensaries adopt typical retail compensation practices, with low pay and few benefits. |
Cannabis dispensaries are compelled to provide decent wages and benefits because either or all of the following occur: strong job quality licensing rules are implemented, policymakers enact broad reform of labor standards, or–most easily–policies such as LPAs safeguard union organizing rights. |
| Cannabis workers are subjected to irregular and unpredictable work schedules, leading to unstable incomes, higher mental stress, and work-life conflict. |
Unions ensure that cannabis retailers follow fair scheduling practices and promote full-time work. |
| Employers rely on increased labor supply from decriminalization and declining cannabis stigma to keep wages low and tolerate high turnover. |
Union-based training and certification programs help develop knowledgeable sales staff and ensure compliance with dispensary safety regulations. |