Wolcott, NY – On January 30th, the negotiating committee composed of farm worker leaders at Cahoon Farms, an apple producer in upstate New York, signed their first ever union contract with the United Farm Workers. Cahoon Farms management had previously signed the contract earlier last week, following its ratification by a majority of Cahoon Farm’s workers. The first ever UFW contract in the State of New York is now in effect.
“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 first certified as the collective bargaining representative of the agricultural workers at Cahoon Farms on December 7th, 2022, beginning over 2 years of negotiations. During those 2 years, Cahoon workers faced significant efforts to reverse their unionization, including legal efforts to overturn the landmark 2019 New York state law which extended the right to unionize to farm workers in New York, and efforts to not recall and replace a large number of seasonal workers.
Major benefits of the historic UFW contract at Cahoon Farms include:
- Wage increases for both hourly and piece rate work
- Discipline and Termination only for Just Cause
- A first-ever retirement plan, with a company match of 3%
- Layoff and Recall of workers determined by seniority for all workers
- A Grievance Process to resolve any work issues or violations
- Right to request leave of absence with no loss of seniority
- Employees will be provided with necessary equipment, tools, and protective gear
- 9 paid holidays, in addition to paid vacation time, sick days, and bereavement leave
This is the first farm worker contract in New York state that covers all employees including both seasonal guest workers and year-round local workers. Cahoon Farms is the first agricultural employer with a certified UFW represented workforce to sign a collective bargaining agreement with the UFW. There are an additional 7 UFW certifications across New York where negotiations are ongoing. UFW organizing at additional farms continues.
For media inquiries and worker interviews please reach out to media@ufw.org
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