Glass House Brands Tightens Up Compliance After ICE Raids Shake Operations

LOS ANGELES – Glass House Brands Inc. has swiftly moved to strengthen its compliance protocols following federal immigration raids on two of its California farms on July 10.

Conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the raids targeted potential violations under Title 8 of the U.S. Code, resulting in the detention of approximately 360 individuals, including nine Glass House employees, though the company has not verified these figures. Tragically, one contractor employee, Jaime Alanis Garcia, died from injuries sustained during the operation, and a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, George Retes, was detained for three days without charges.

The raids, which sparked violent protests outside law enforcement barricades, underscored lapses in oversight by third-party Farm Labor Contractors (FLCs), who were contractually obligated to ensure all workers were over 21 and had valid work authorization. Reports of 11 minors aged 14 to 17 being detained raised further concerns, though Glass House confirmed none were direct employees. In response, the company has enacted sweeping changes to restore trust and ensure compliance.

Glass House terminated its agreements with the two FLCs involved and revised its contractor agreements to enforce best-in-class compliance standards. New FLCs have been engaged, and the terminated contractors must adopt enhanced procedures to regain access to Glass House facilities. The company has also implemented E-Verify for all employees and contractors, with documents reviewed by experts for validity and age verification. Additional age-gating controls now apply to all farm entrants, including vendors and visitors.

To guide these efforts, Glass House enlisted Guidepost Services, led by former ICE Director Julie Myers Wood, to implement rigorous employment eligibility practices. The company also signed a Labor Peace Agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, signaling a commitment to fair labor practices and cooperation with union efforts.

Despite this challenge, Glass House remains a powerhouse, reporting $200.9 million in 2024 revenue, a 24.9% increase from the previous year, and a significant reduction in losses. With its focus on sustainable, high-quality Cannabis products through brands like Glass House Farms, Allswell, PLUS Products, and Mama Sue Wellness the company continues to solidify its position in California’s competitive market.

These proactive measures reflect Glass House’s determination to move beyond the July raids.