Tyler Priest, the Chief Revenue Officer at Greenleaf Business Solutions, delves into the complexities of managing HR and payroll within the cannabis industry's complex regulatory landscape.
Tyler Priest emphasizes the ongoing conflict between state and federal cannabis laws, particularly concerning 401(k) plans for cannabis companies. He highlights the need for comprehensive HR and payroll solutions tailored to the unique challenges of this industry, including payroll processing, HR consulting, benefits administration, and compliant 401(k) options.
The conversation explores the difficulties in establishing traditional retirement savings plans for cannabis employees due to the conflict between IRS tax codes and cannabis industry regulations. Tyler Priest discusses Greenleaf's efforts to develop a compliant 401(k) solution that can be offered by various payroll providers, emphasizing their commitment to creating a secure and reliable retirement savings vehicle for cannabis industry workers.
Tyler Priest also addresses the challenges posed by changes in 401(k) plan custodians and the need for reliable financial institutions willing to serve the cannabis industry. He introduces the concept of a pooled employer plan to ensure commitment from all parties involved, including mutual funds and custodians. The importance of future-proofing these solutions to avoid business interruptions is also emphasized.
The discussion highlights the partnership between Green Path 401(k) and 1st Citizens Bank, underscoring the importance of collaborating with trusted financial institutions and advisors. Tyler Priest emphasizes the value of thorough vetting and due diligence when selecting partners in the cannabis industry.
Tyler Priest and our host touch upon the potential impact of cannabis rescheduling on 401(k) plans and the possibility of increased employer contributions. They also discuss the challenges cannabis businesses face in accessing traditional banking services and the potential for regulatory changes to streamline this process.
The conversation emphasizes the benefits of offering 401(k) plans as a retention tool and a differentiator for cannabis companies. They discuss various plan design options, including employer matching contributions and different contribution levels for managers.
Tyler Priest highlights the value of partnering with experienced custodians like Mid Atlantic Trust to ensure the security and accessibility of retirement funds for cannabis employees. He stresses the importance of clear communication and financial education to encourage employee participation in 401(k) plans.
Throughout the discussion, Tyler Priest and our host underscore the importance of professionalizing the cannabis industry and providing employees with access to the same benefits and financial tools available in other sectors. They conclude by encouraging cannabis employers to explore the Green Path 401(k) solution and prioritize the financial well-being of their workforce.