, according to the Culinary Workers Union, which has been negotiating with casino management for months over better wages, health coverage, job security, and other benefits.
This potential strike would be the first on the Strip in decades and could be a major blow to the city at a time when it is already struggling to recover from the pandemic-induced economic slowdown.
The union has been petitioning for a fair contract since February, negotiating with representatives from MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment Corp. The union is asking for better pay and job stability, as well as better health insurance and workplace safety policies.
The Culinary Workers Union represents around 25,000 people in Las Vegas. If the two sides cannot come to an agreement, those workers could go on strike starting May 1.
Since the pandemic, these workers have been essential in helping to keep the city afloat, maintaining cleaning and sanitation standards and staffing buffets, restaurants, hotels, and casinos. A prolonged strike could mean major financial losses for the city, further hurting already crippled local businesses.
The Culinary Workers Union has requested special status for its members that would give them protection from workplace retaliation and job losses if they choose to go on strike. Casino workers and the union hope that the Nevada Gaming Control Board will offer support and provide assurance that workers will not face retribution if they choose to go on strike.
At this time, it is unclear whether the casinos and the union will be able to come to an agreement before the May 1 deadline. However, a prolonged strike could be devastating to the economy of Las Vegas and may have far-reaching consequences beyond the Strip.
