The United Farm Workers union has officially endorsed California’s Proposition 64, according to a press release from the Yes on 64 campaign. The union is the country’s largest farm workers union, operating in 10 states.
The ballot initiative is a consensus measure by the union “based on recognized best practices and recommendations from hundreds of engaged citizens and organizations.” UFW President Arturo S. Rodriguez said the measure provides justice and job training to “communities of color that have been cynically targeted by the failed war on marijuana.”
“It also extends strong worker and safety protections for those who toil in the fields of this industry and work in every part of the supply chain,” he said in the release. “UFW is pleased to endorse it.”
Prop 64 has also won support from the United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Academy of Preventative Medicine, California Medical Association and the California Nurses Association.
However, some growers have voiced concern over the question, saying that it will cause onerous oversight and welcomes big businesses which could eliminate independent and small farms. A poll of California Growers Association members found that the majority — 38 percent — were still undecided on which way they would vote, with 31 percent both for and against the initiative.