An association that opposes legislation seeking to establish a three-member board that would recommend a minimum wage for New York cannabis workers said survey data shows pay in the industry already exceeds that of other job sectors.
The study found the average wage for cannabis workers is $25.87 an hour, which it said is about 19% higher than the average wage for similar occupations in New York. The average cannabis retail worker earns about $25.55 an hour, 25% more than the average retail worker in New York, who earns $20.47 an hour.
The survey, conducted by FTI Consulting, was released Monday by the Safe and Affordable Cannabis for New York Association, a coalition of cannabis business stakeholders who have urged Gov. Kathy Hochul not to sign the legislation. They said imposing a minimum wage could imperil the industry where many business operators are already losing money. They also contend it could drive up retail prices, resulting in more customers turning to unlicensed products.
