The United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 555 (UFCW 555) is now working to repeal a law it heavily supported. This significant policy shift centers on Oregon’s Measure 119. The union previously championed this measure. Now, they cite legal complications and court decisions. Their goal is to pass House Bill 4162. This bill aims to officially strike down Measure 119.
Genesis of Measure 119
Measure 119 was a voter-approved initiative in Oregon. It became effective in December 2024. The measure required cannabis businesses to sign a “labor peace agreement” with a union. This agreement was mandatory for obtaining or renewing a license. UFCW 555 pushed hard for its passage. They spent millions of dollars on signature gathering. They also spent heavily on the campaign itself. The union believed the measure protected workers. It aimed to ensure their right to organize and bargain. It also sought to address safety concerns in the industry.
Legislative Hurdles and Union Tactics
UFCW 555 first tried to pass similar legislation in 2023. They pursued House Bill 3183. However, the bill stalled in the Oregon Legislature. Then-State Representative Paul Holvey raised concerns. He worried about federal law conflicts. He cited potential violations of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Holvey also questioned constitutional issues. UFCW 555 reacted angrily to Holvey’s stance. They launched a recall campaign against him. This effort failed, costing the union over $300,000. Holvey, a longtime labor supporter, later retired.
Court Strikes Down Measure 119
Despite passing the ballot measure, Measure 119 faced legal challenges. In May 2025, a U.S. District Court ruling invalidated the law. The court found Measure 119 unconstitutional. It preempted federal law, specifically the NLRA. The court determined the measure restricted employer speech too much. It violated the First Amendment by compelling neutrality. Employers were prohibited from expressing views on unionization. This went against NLRA protections. Consequently, Oregon regulators stopped enforcing the requirement. The ruling signaled that cannabis businesses no longer needed LPAs for licenses.
Union’s Strategic Shift
Now, UFCW 555 is advocating for Measure 119’s repeal. Mike Selvaggio, the union’s political director, testified before lawmakers. He acknowledged the unusual nature of the request. The union points to the federal court’s decision. They also fear the U.S. Supreme Court’s current stance on labor unions. They wish to repeal the measure before it can be used against workers in higher courts. The union spent significant funds to pass Measure 119. Now, they want it removed from statute.
Legislative Action and Future Outlook
House Bill 4162 is now moving through the Oregon Legislature. It aims to repeal Measure 119. The bill has passed the House. It is currently heading to the Senate floor. This reversal highlights the complex interplay of state law, federal regulations, and union strategy. The legal precedent set in Oregon could influence similar measures in other states. This news is crucial for the Oregon cannabis industry and labor relations.
