By Blake Jackson
On January 30th, farm workers at Cahoon Farms, an apple producer in upstate New York, achieved a historic victory by signing their first-ever union contract with the United Farm Workers (UFW). This contract follows its ratification by a majority of workers and the earlier agreement reached with Cahoon Farms management.
“This hard-fought victory for farm workers in New York is the first of many,” said UFW Secretary Treasurer Armando Elenes. “For the farm workers at Cahoon, this contract means better wages, better benefits, recall rights, more days off, and greater job security. For farm workers across New York, this contract means that a better way of working and living is possible. If the workers at Cahoon could organize, stay strong, and ultimately emerge victorious with their first ever union contract - then so can you. Si Se Puede.”
The UFW was officially recognized as the collective bargaining representative for Cahoon Farms' agricultural workers on December 7th, 2022, marking the beginning of over two years of negotiations.
During this period, Cahoon workers faced opposition to their unionization efforts, including legal challenges aimed at overturning the landmark 2019 New York state law that extended unionization rights to farm workers.
Key benefits outlined in the historic UFW contract at Cahoon Farms include:
- Wage increases for both hourly and piece-rate workers
- Just Cause provisions for disciplinary actions and termination
- A pioneering retirement plan with a 3% company match
- Seniority-based layoff and recall procedures for all workers
- A grievance process to address workplace issues and violations
- The right to request leave of absence without seniority loss
- Provision of necessary equipment, tools, and protective gear
- Nine paid holidays, in addition to paid vacation time, sick days, and bereavement leave
This contract is the first of its kind in New York state, encompassing all employees, including both seasonal guest workers and year-round local workers.
Cahoon Farms becomes the first agricultural employer with a UFW-represented workforce to sign a collective bargaining agreement with the union. Negotiations are currently underway for seven additional UFW certifications across New York.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: New York, Government & Policy