Las Vegas businesses have successfully negotiated with the disgruntled hospitality workers and bus drivers, preventing two strikes that would have jeopardized preparations for the Super Bowl. This will provide some breathing space to the city’s businesses ahead of the highly-anticipated event.

The Culinary Union was negotiating with multiple casinos and had threatened to strike on Monday. However, the walkout was canceled thanks to agreements with Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino and Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.

As things stand now, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is the last local property where Culinary Union workers are yet to secure contracts. Ted Pappageorge, the union’s secretary-treasurer, recently commented on the matter, saying that his team has decided to give the latter property some more time to reach an agreement with its workers. He explained that the Culinary Union expects a resolution on a new contract in the coming weeks.

For reference, the Culinary Union recently achieved victories at a number of Strip and Downtown casinos, securing five-year contracts across multiple properties.

Bus Drivers Refrained from Striking Too

In the meantime, Las Vegas bus drivers and mechanics also reached a last-minute agreement and decided to forgo their strike.

For reference, Transdev, the firm behind the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Southern Nevada’s public bus service, and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1637 had threatened to strike after failing to reach an agreement for multiple months. Luckily, the two bodies managed to score a deal, although it is yet to be approved by all union members.

In any case, the prevention of this strike will provide Las Vegas with the peace of mind it needs ahead of the Super Bowl.

The Super Bowl Is Just Around the Corner

As the Super Bowl looms, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a stern reminder to all 32 teams, reminding them of the league’s strict gambling policies. The commissioner emphasized the importance of maintaining the event’s integrity and ensuring a frictionless and fraud-free game.

In the meantime, sportsbooks continue to shy away from offering non-game bets, such as whether pop sensation Taylor Swift will appear at the event to support her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and the Kansas City Chiefs.

For reference, the 58^th edition of the event will see the Kansas City Chiefs challenge the San Francisco 49ers in a game set to take place on February 11 at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada.

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Last month, unionized casino workers at Detroit’s three casinos, MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino and Hollywood Casino at Greektown, launched a strike. The move came at a time when the workers asked for better working conditions, including pay raises, job security and workload reduction. The strike saw 3,700 casino workers, including dealers, housekeepers and other employees protest for more than a month.

On Sunday, November 19, 2023, the strike for Hollywood Casino at Greektown and MotorCity Casino employees ended. At the time, the Detroit Casino Council (DCC), representing the workers, confirmed that the employees of the two casinos had voted and ratified the new contract “with historic wage increases and other gains.”

Despite their decision, MGM Grand Casino employees who voted on the same contract turned it down. As a result, now, more than a week later, the strike for MGM Grand’s casino employees continues. As announced by Click on Detroit, unions confirmed Wednesday that they are “back at the negotiation table” with MGM Grand Casino.

Reportedly, the workers at MGM Grand filed a new proposal to the operator on Wednesday. The union representing them confirmed that the casino is yet to respond to that proposal. Specific details regarding the proposal were not disclosed at the time of writing.

Talks with the Casino Employees on Strike Continue

While negotiations continue, the DCC did not disclose why MGM Grand’s casino employees rejected the initial proposal that was accepted by the workers at the two other Detroit casinos. Instead, the Council explained that there are additional dates scheduled for negotiations and outlined that each casino property voted separately for the proposed five-year gaming contracts.

“Union members at MGM Grand Casino voted to reject the proposed deal and will continue to strike. More bargaining dates will be scheduled. Membership at each casino property voted separately about whether to accept the deal,“

reads a statement released by the Detroit Casino Council

Matt Buckley, MGM Resorts Midwest Group’s president and COO revealed earlier this month that it is disappointing to see MGM Grand’s employees reject the proposal. “This is a very disappointing result, especially considering the historic nature of our offer and the fact that it would immediately and positively benefit our DCC-represented MGM Grand employees and their families,” he explained at the time.

Moreover, Buckley was left baffled by the decision of the employees at MGM Grand, considering that the workers of the two other Detroit casinos voted in favor of the proposal. Speaking about the DCC, he said that even they deemed the gaming contract proposal as “historic” and one that offers good benefits along with an increase in pay for the casino workers.

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Negotiations between unionized workers across Las Vegas and the three leading casino and entertainment giants, Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts continue. Approximately 60,000 workers from the casino and entertainment vertical, including dealers, bartenders, housekeepers, bellmen and other employees are represented by the Culinary Workers Union. Ultimately, the Union proposes better conditions for the workers under a new five-year contract.

Last week, leaders of the Union met with Caesars and MGM Resorts. This week, negotiations continued with discussions with Wynn Resorts on Monday. Despite the talks, negotiations are slow and tension remains high, especially considering the recent arrest of peaceful protesters.

Now, as announced by KTNV, Ted Pappageorge, the lead negotiator for the Culinary Union and secretary-treasurer, progress is made but more needs to be done. He spoke about the importance of financial benefits, including health care, for the whole duration of the new five-year contract.

“I am happy to say we have made more progress than we made in quite a while. Unfortunately, not nearly enough,”

explained Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union

Moreover, Pappageorge addressed growing concerns related to technology, including a reduction in the number of employees. He revealed that while it is yet for technological solutions to replace humans, employees within the hospitality, entertainment and gaming industries need to have guarantees that their jobs would be protected.

Workers Ready for a Strike

The demands of employees from the gaming and entertainment sector come at a time when auto workers across the US have been on strike for several weeks. Only recently, they were able to reach a deal with the country’s top automakers, pushing for better pay and working conditions.

Similarly, some of the most important demands within the Unions’ negotiations with the leading gaming and entertainment companies include better wages, health care benefits as well as job security.

However, despite the recent progress, Pappageorge said that the workers remain ready for a strike. “I think we’ve been able to make some movement, but if we were having to make the decision today, it wouldn’t be enough. And I think these workers would authorize a strike,” he explained according to a report by the Las Vegas Sun.

He said that just like gambling operators make record profits, workers deserve “record contracts.” Pappageorge confirmed that while negotiations are ongoing, preparations for a strike continue. According to him, if the workers go on strike, this may be the largest one in the history of Sin City.

The post Las Vegas: Union Negotiations Continue but Strike Still Possible appeared first on Keno Wizard.

New York state officials find themselves under increasing pressure to secure a new gaming compact with the Seneca Nation of Indians before the current agreement expires in less than 90 days. 

Concerns Mount Over Stalled Seneca Nation Gaming Talks

State Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio, representing the 148th District of Western New York, expressed his growing unease over the stagnant talks between the state and the Seneca Nation, reported The Olean Times Herald. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that he had not heard about any progress at all and pointed out that time was running out. Giglio’s concerns are shared by many in his district, where the tribal casinos serve as the largest employers, providing jobs for thousands of residents.

The current gaming compact, set to expire on December 9, grants the Seneca Nation exclusive rights to offer class III gaming in the state’s Western region in exchange for 25% of gambling revenues. Negotiations between the parties seemed promising earlier this year when they reached a tentative agreement in June. However, the deal fell apart after objections were raised by Rochester-area lawmakers regarding a proposed casino in the city, causing further delays and tensions between the parties.

Apart from the looming deadline, additional challenges include the need for approval from Seneca Nation citizens through a referendum vote, the US Department of the Interior‘s sign-off on the deal, and the State Legislature passing a bill authorizing the new agreement. The complexity of these requirements adds to the urgency felt by negotiators.

Seneca Nation Prioritizes Fair Compact in Urgent Talks

Seneca President Rickey Armstrong Sr. underscored the importance of the negotiations, emphasizing that their top priority was to establish a fair compact. He expressed eagerness for increased direct dialogue with the state, highlighting the immense economic impacts and advantages resulting from the discussions. Armstrong stressed that these consequences were substantial, benefiting not only the Seneca people but also their numerous employees, collaborators, and the entire Western New York region.

Assemblyman Giglio further expressed his frustration, questioning the state’s approach to the negotiations.

He wondered why more attention was not being paid to the matter and what was causing the delay. Giglio emphasized his deep disappointment, stating that the negotiations should have been concluded earlier. He is of the opinion that everyone, including the state, would face significant consequences due to the delay, describing the situation as potentially catastrophic.

As the countdown continues, all eyes are on the negotiating table, with the hope that a resolution can be reached swiftly to prevent potential economic setbacks for both the Seneca Nation and the state of New York.

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Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York has stressed yet again her detachment from the ongoing negotiations between her office and the Seneca Nation concerning a potential casino in the Rochester area. However, she emphasized that she is not directly participating in the negotiations, the timing decisions, or engaging in discussions with external individuals regarding this matter at the moment.

Local Leaders Surprised by Casino Deal Talks Involving Gov. Hochul’s Office

Speaking during the grand reopening ceremony at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, Gov. Hochul clarified that she had recused herself from the negotiations and would be informed of the details alongside the public, reported 13WHAM ABC.

The negotiations have sparked controversy and raised eyebrows among local leaders and lawmakers, who were surprised to learn about the talks involving a casino deal. The governor’s office has been handling the compact talks on behalf of Gov. Hochul due to her recusal from matters related to Delaware North, the company where her husband is employed as the senior vice president and general counsel.

The previous announcement of a new tribal gaming agreement between the governor’s office and the Seneca Nation, which potentially included a Las Vegas-style resort casino in Rochester, sparked criticism for not involving relevant state lawmakers and local officials in the negotiations.

Governor Hochul Allegedly Stalling Compact Renewal for Corporate Benefit

Following the refusal of the New York Assembly to pass a statute authorizing Gov. Hochul to sign the Seneca contract, the Seneca Nation’s President, Rickey Armstrong Sr., accused the governor of deliberately stalling the compact renewal, which could benefit Delaware North.

Despite the setback, Gov. Hochul assured that discussions with the Seneca Nation are still ongoing. She emphasized her commitment to seeking a good outcome for all parties involved and working with an outstanding team on the matter.

As negotiations continue, lawmakers from Rochester have expressed their concerns regarding the potential impact of a casino project in the area. The Greater Rochester Majority Delegation has been engaging with all relevant parties, including the Governor’s office, local stakeholders, and the Mayor’s office, to ensure that any agreement between the Seneca Nation and New York State is transparent and well-informed.

In May, the Seneca Nation sought public support for a fair gaming compact as their current agreement with New York State is set to expire in December. They organized community support events throughout May, encouraging people to sign letters to state leaders, urging them to expedite the negotiation process and sign a new deal before the end of the State Legislature session on June 8. The Nation emphasizes its positive economic impact in the region, with three casino properties employing around 3,000 people and providing significant indirect support to the local economy.

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Negotiations between Star Entertainment and the New South Wales (NSW) government regarding a proposed casino tax are reaching a critical stage as both parties strive to find a resolution.

Backlash Mounts Against Controversial Casino Tax Proposal

The tax proposal, however, has faced significant backlash from Star Entertainment, Sydney’s largest casino operator, as the company argues that it will place a strain on its finances and potentially result in job losses. The controversy surrounding the tax is further fueled by criticisms from the Labor Party, who have questioned the initial development of the tax by the Coalition.

To alleviate the financial pressure faced by Star Entertainment, the NSW government is considering deferring the tax rise and offering rebates for investments in building upgrades, reported The Australian Financial Review. Despite these discussions, Labor remains firm in its commitment to see through the tax increase, emphasizing the revenue it would generate for the state.

NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey has acknowledged the need to modify the controversial tax while preserving its essence. Mookhey has deemed the tax as “not properly developed” and acknowledged the concerns raised by Star Entertainment regarding the discrepancy in tax rates between NSW and Victoria. Treasury briefings have highlighted the lack of consultation with casinos before the announcement of the new duty rates, further adding to the controversy.

Treasurer Open to Reassessment as Star Entertainment Takes Drastic Measures

While the Star Entertainment Group has expressed hopes for a reconsideration of the entire proposal, it appears that the options available might be limited to deferring the start date or exploring alternative measures.

The decision on how to proceed with the tax proposal presents a significant challenge for the new government, which also inherited a budget deficit. Additionally, public sentiment towards casinos has soured following inquiries into Star Entertainment and Crown Resorts, which revealed extensive wrongdoing and money laundering facilitation by international criminal groups.

Acknowledging the concerns raised by Star Entertainment, Treasurer Mookhey has expressed a willingness to reassess the tax’s implementation. The company has already taken steps to mitigate financial pressures by cutting 500 jobs and seeking guidance from investment bank Barrenjoey.

Star Entertainment’s chief, Robbie Cooke, has questioned the basis of the government’s financial modelling and the claim that the company does not pay its fair share of taxes. Major shareholder Bruce Mathieson warned that the proposed tax hike could “nearly ruin” the casino group, adding to the urgency of finding a suitable solution. Amidst ongoing remediation efforts and potential fines for criminal activities and money laundering breaches, Star Entertainment’s stock has experienced a significant decline since the beginning of the year.

The post Star Entertainment and NSW Government in Negotiations Over Casino Tax appeared first on Keno Wizard.

Fanatics Sportsbook, the sports betting arm of the popular sports merchandise brand, is reportedly in talks to acquire the US business of the Australian sportsbook operator PointsBet.

Sources Claim Negotiations Are Ongoing

Fanatics is in advanced negotiations to acquire the US assets and operation of troubled sportsbook operator PointsBet, including its innovative “PointsBetting” apparatus, Sports Handle reported today.

According to two separate unnamed high-level industry sources of the media, there is a high chance that a deal could be announced early next week, while a third source said that it would be surprising if there is not “quite a bit of paper” around the deal by then.

The possible acquisition of PointsBet will represent a major step for Fanatics in achieving its objective to gain market access in 12 US jurisdictions with legalized sports betting by the 2023 NFL season as part of a major plan to eventually become present in every major state with legal sports wagering.

With market access in 14 states, among which major sports wagering jurisdictions New York, Illinois, New Jersey, Michigan and Pennsylvania, and an in-house tech stack, PointsBet is viewed as a possible acquisition target by Fanatics and rumors of a possible deal for PointsBet’s US business initially surfaced in 2021.

Feeling the Heat from Competitors

Problems for PoinstBet USA began surfacing in February when the operator withdrew from launching its dedicated app in Massachusetts due to the intense competition in the US online sports wagering space dominated by DraftKings, FanDuel and BetMGM.

In April, PointsBet hired a prominent financial advisory services firm to seek a buyer for its US business, stirring rumors that it is seeking a way out of the US, and later in the month, the operator officially stated its intent to divest its US and North American business.

PointsBet also suffered from industry setbacks and had to terminate betting partnerships with the University of Maryland and the University of Colorado, following the latest update of AGA’s Responsible Marketing Gaming Code for Sports Wagering.

The operator also became embroiled in a crypto phishing scam and had to temporarily halt its email communications system after it was breached by a third-party provider which sent emails involving an unsolicited crypto offer.

Fanatics Sportsbook became operational in its second and third US jurisdiction on May 1, after launching its mobile app in Tennessee and Ohio. Until then, the brand was present with only one retail location at FedExField in Maryland, where it launched in January.

Fanatics Sportsbook is also eyeing a June launch of its mobile app in Massachusetts, where it received its online sports betting license via Plainridge Park Casino.

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