Las Vegas casino unions are gearing up for another battle against President Donald Trump, as they prepare to negotiate new labor contracts in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and the Bartenders Union Local 165, which represent tens of thousands of workers in the city’s famed casinos and hotels, are expected to push for better wages, increased safety measures, and improved benefits in their upcoming negotiations.
The unions have a long history of advocating for fair treatment and equitable pay for their members, and they are not afraid to take on powerful opponents, including President Trump. In 2018, the unions went head-to-head with the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas over contract negotiations, ultimately reaching a deal that included wage increases and better health care coverage for workers.
Now, with the COVID-19 crisis exacerbating existing inequalities in the hospitality industry, the unions are pushing even harder for meaningful change. Many workers in the casino industry were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic, and those who remained on the job faced heightened health risks and increased workloads. The unions are determined to ensure that workers are not left behind as the industry recovers.
One of the key issues on the table is the safety of workers in the casinos. The unions are calling for enhanced safety protocols, including regular COVID-19 testing, improved ventilation systems, and increased access to personal protective equipment. They also want to see better training for workers on how to handle potentially dangerous situations, such as unruly guests or hazardous materials.
In addition to safety concerns, the unions are also focused on securing fair wages and benefits for their members. Many casino workers are paid low wages and rely on tips to make ends meet, and the unions are determined to secure better pay and benefits for their members. They are also calling for more job security and improved working conditions, including guaranteed rest breaks and protections against harassment and discrimination.
The unions are preparing to enter negotiations with the casinos armed with a strong mandate from their members. In a recent survey of union members, an overwhelming majority expressed support for the union’s efforts to secure better wages, benefits, and working conditions. With this strong backing, the unions are confident that they can achieve meaningful change for their members.
As they gear up for negotiations, the unions are also drawing attention to the political climate in Las Vegas. President Trump’s controversial policies and rhetoric have divided the city, and many workers in the industry are concerned about their future under his administration. By taking on Trump and the casinos, the unions are sending a clear message that they will not back down in the face of challenges, and that they are committed to fighting for the rights and well-being of all workers in Las Vegas.
