Casino workers at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas have authorized a strike, alleging that management has engaged in unfair labor practices.
The property was home to the World Series of Poker from 2005-2021. Then, Caesars Entertainment sold the property to Dreamscape Companies, an affiliate of Hyatt Resorts, in 2021. Caesars moved the WSOP to the Horseshoe and Paris casinos on the Las Vegas Strip the following year.
Teamsters Local 986 officials said on Monday that the vote to strike came after two years of negotiations with management. If an agreement with the casino isn’t reached soon, workers could walk off the job and head to the picket line.
Stalled Contract Talks
The workers’ labor contract expired last year, and negotiations have stalled. The union represents about 100 employees at the property.
“The Rio can afford to meet the demands of our members, but management is refusing so they can put more money in their own pockets,” Teamsters Local 986 president Tim Vera said. “It’s wrong, and the Teamsters are not going to let them get away with it.”
Workers have filed several unfair labor practice complaints against the property, according to the union. They claim management has not negotiated in good faith.
“It’s time for the Rio to quit playing games and get serious at the bargaining table,” front desk worker Jose Culin said in an interview with local media. “We are proud of the work we do, but the way this company is treating us is unacceptable.”
Rio representatives dispute many of the union’s claims. Company representatives claim they continue to work with union officials to reach an agreement.
“Rio Las Vegas actively engaged in negotiations with Teamsters Local 986 and continues to bargain in good faith,” the company said. “We deeply value the contributions of our team members. We are committed to resolving outstanding issues in a way that supports both our team members and the long-term success of our property.”
Several Las Vegas casinos encountered labor disputes over the last few years. In January, workers at the Virgin Hotel and Casino returned to work after a 69-day strike. In 2023, Las Vegas’ three largest casino companies reached agreements with members of the Culinary and Bartenders Union to avoid a potential strike.
