There’s less than a week until the iconic gaming and hospitality resort, The Mirage Hotel & Casino, is expected to close its doors to visitors. The closure is related to a complete overhaul of the property that will transform it into Hard Rock Las Vegas.

July 17 will mark the closing date of the Mirage, putting an end to an era in the history of Sin City. The Mirage confirmed that it will host a farewell ceremony before closing its doors. The ceremony will start at 9 AM on July 17 and will include speeches from recognizable faces within the gambling sector, including Hard Rock’s chairman and CEO of Seminole Gaming, Jim Allen, as well as the Mirage’s president, Joe Lupo, among others.

Currently, some 1,700 workers at the casino resort are represented by the Culinary and Bartenders unions. The unions played a key role in helping workers affected by the closure to find new jobs with efforts including job fairs, information and training campaigns.

Ted Pappageorge, the Culinary Union’s secretary-treasurer, who was recently interviewed by the Las Vegas Sun revealed that closures such as the one at the Mirage are difficult. Still, he acknowledged the efforts of Hard Rock to make the property better which is an objective that is strongly supported by the Union.

“The beautiful thing is that this company (Hard Rock International) — it’s going to remodel and reopen, and it’s going to be bigger and better than before, and we 100% support that.“

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer at the Culinary Union

Employees Affected by the Closure Can Select Different Compensation Options

Pappageorge explained that the closure marks a difficult period for the workers at the Mirage. He said that some of the workers have been employed at the world-famous casino resort for their entire careers, which is why it is difficult to see the property close its doors.

Speaking about the economy, Pappageorge said it “is back, and it’s strong,” adding that business is growing not only in Las Vegas but across the country as well. He said that while more visitors come to Sin City, there are different opportunities for the workers there.

In light of the upcoming closure, workers at the Mirage will have two different options. One of the options involves a compensation of $2,000 for every year the employee was with the hotel casino, as well as six months of medical insurance and pension. In case a worker selects this option, they won’t be automatically rehired by the property once it reopens in about three years after the redevelopment.

On the other hand, employees at the Mirage can also choose another option that provides less attractive compensation. What’s different is that the employees would be able to return to the property once its redevelopment is completed. While with the first option, workers can apply, with the second, their employment would be guaranteed.

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Thousands of workers are going to be affected by the upcoming closure of the Mirage, one of the most iconic and recognizable hotel casino resorts in Las Vegas. The temporary closure scheduled for July 17 is required as a part of the process that will completely overhaul the famous property.

Once completed, the revamp of the Mirage will turn it into a Hard Rock Las Vegas. Ahead of the planned closure, Nevada’s Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR) reaffirmed its intention to support hotel and casino staff who are going to be affected.

Back in May, DETR announced the launch of its Rapid Response Program, an initiative that seeks to help the workers impacted by the closure find new jobs. The worker-focused initiative offers job fairs, information and training sessions for employees.

Besides helping affected workers find new employment the initiative provides options for improving skills, including resume writing and networking, among other vital skills.

Now, according to a report released by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, some 323 Mirage employees have participated in a resource fair as of Monday. In addition, 315 others have participated in an educational program with DETR.

The Workers Will Benefit from Separation Pay

Besides the job fairs, information and other resources, affected workers at the Mirage are going to benefit from good separation pay. Overall, 3,350 workers are expected to benefit from a total of $80 million in severance packages by Hard Rock International.

Employees who currently are not part of unions will benefit from two weeks’ pay, applicable for every year they worked at the hotel-casino. It’s important to note that such severance packages are limited to a maximum of $20,000.

On the other hand, Mirage workers who are Culinary Local 226 members will benefit from a separation pay of $2,000 for every year they worked at the Mirage.

The combined efforts demonstrated by the Nevada authorities and the operator reaffirm their dedication to helping the affected employees find new jobs quickly.

In March last year, Clark County greenlighted Hard Rock’s guitar-shaped tower. The revamp of the Mirage is expected to bring a new 660-foot-tall hotel tower offering 600 rooms, among other amenities.

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Atlantic City casino workers have voiced their discontent with Gov. Phil Murphy‘s stance on the smoking ban proposal. The governor’s comments during News 12’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” program stirred controversy among members of the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) group, who vehemently oppose his assertion that there are valid arguments on both sides of the issue.

Casino Workers and Industry Debate Escalates Over Smoking Ban Advocacy

During the program, Gov. Murphy acknowledged the differing viewpoints within the casino industry regarding the proposed ban. He highlighted the concerns raised by the United Auto Workers (UAW), representing dealers, who advocate for the ban citing the discomfort caused by patrons smoking in close proximity. 

Conversely, he pointed out the reservations expressed by Local 54 of Unite Here, another prominent union, fearing adverse impacts on business if the ban were to be implemented.

Responding to the governor’s remarks, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, emphasized the lack of parity in the debate. He criticized Gov. Murphy for according legitimacy to what he termed as “casino industry scare tactics,” which he believes are fueled by unsubstantiated claims. 

Naccarelli asserted that independent research, based on current data, indicates that casinos could actually experience enhanced revenue in a smoke-free environment. He called upon Gov. Murphy to exhibit leadership in safeguarding the well-being of workers, stressing that no one should be compelled to compromise their health for the sake of employment.

Atlantic City Casino Workers’ Lawsuit Faces Setback Amid Hearing Postponement

CEASE, in collaboration with UAW Region 9, has taken legal action against Gov. Murphy and the state health commissioner, contesting the exemption granted to casinos from the Smoke-Free Air Act of 2006. A court hearing to address the matter has been scheduled for May 13, underscoring the escalating tensions surrounding the issue.

The postponement of the anticipated hearing for the lawsuit seeking a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos, filed by workers represented by CEASE and the UAW union, presents a setback in their efforts for safer workplaces. 

Pete Naccarelli previously expressed frustration over the delay, highlighting the continued health risks faced by thousands of workers. Despite opposition from the Casino Association of New Jersey, workers remain determined to pursue a comprehensive ban, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding health and constitutional rights.

Workers in Atlantic City casinos, represented by the UAW, resorted to legal action by filing the lawsuit challenging the exemption that allows smoking in gambling establishments, arguing it violates equal protection under the law. 

This move reflects ongoing efforts to address concerns about workplace safety amid the industry’s resistance to banning smoking, sparking similar campaigns in other states such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia, and drawing attention to the broader issue of workers’ rights in the gaming sector.

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The anticipated hearing for the lawsuit filed by Atlantic City casino workers seeking a smoking ban has been postponed, marking a significant setback in their ongoing fight for safer working conditions. Initially scheduled for April 25, the hearing has been delayed by two weeks following a request from the New Jersey Attorney General’s office.

Lawsuit Delay Heightens Battle Against Smoking in Atlantic City Casinos

This delay comes amidst a longstanding effort by the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union to challenge the exemption allowing smoking in Atlantic City casinos. Their lawsuit contends that the exemption violates the principle of equal protection under the law and is unconstitutional.

Expressing frustration over the delay, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, highlighted the continued exposure of tens of thousands of casino workers to hazardous secondhand smoke. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, asserting that the current environment not only poses dangers but also infringes upon workers’ constitutional rights.

The postponement of the hearing adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious issue. Workers, represented by the UAW, have long advocated for a smoking ban in casinos, citing concerns about their health and safety. 

Similar campaigns in other states such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia have underscored the broader significance of this issue, resonating with workers across the country.

Casinos Maintain Stance Against Smoking Prohibition

Recent financial reports revealing a downturn in physical visits to Atlantic City’s casinos have heightened concerns. However, workers and union leaders assert that implementing a smoking ban is imperative to safeguard the well-being of both employees and customers, viewing it as a crucial step toward addressing the city’s existing challenges.

Earlier this year, Sen. John Burzichelli presented a bill aimed at addressing the grievances of both workers and the casino sector. However, the proposed legislation was heavily skewed in favor of casinos, leading workers to advocate for a comprehensive ban to reject it. 

Despite growing calls for a smoking ban, the Casino Association of New Jersey remains steadfast in its opposition, citing apprehensions regarding its potential impact on competitiveness with neighboring states. Nevertheless, workers are resolute in their pursuit of change through legal means. The quest for improved working conditions has struck a chord across New Jersey, garnering widespread public backing.

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After years of unsuccessful attempts to persuade lawmakers to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos, workers have taken a new approach: filing a lawsuit to challenge a law that exempts casinos from indoor smoking bans. The lawsuit argues that the exemption for casinos violates the principle of equal protection under the law and seeks to have it acknowledged as unconstitutional.

The Legal Action Escalates an Ongoing Issue

The United Auto Workers (UAW), representing workers at Bally’s, Caesars, and Tropicana casinos, joined by a group of casino workers opposed to smoking in gambling halls, filed a lawsuit in state Superior Court challenging New Jersey’s indoor clean air law. This law, enacted 18 years ago, prohibits smoking in most indoor workplaces but makes an exception for casinos.

At a rally outside the courthouse where the lawsuit was filed, UAW president Shawn Fain noted that such drastic action was only necessary because of the industry’s unwillingness to address the concerns of Atlantic City casino workers regarding their work safety as they must regularly contend with the proven dangers of second-hand smoking.

This legislation was supposed to protect everyone from the dangers of second-hand smoke. But somehow, our casino workers have been asked to roll the dice.

Shawn Fain, UAW president

The issue of smoking in casinos has sparked controversy not only in Atlantic City but also in other states where workers have raised concerns about second-hand smoke. Similar campaigns are underway in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia. Proponents of the ban argue that banning smoking would not affect revenues but would tremendously improve casino staff’s quality of life.

Casinos Remain Opposed to a Smoking Ban

Recent revenue reports showing a decline in in-person visits to Atlantic City casinos have raised further alarm among workers and union leaders. They argue that a smoking ban is necessary to protect the health of workers and patrons alike and would constitute a vital step towards resolving the challenges facing the resort city.

State Senator John Burzichelli introduced a bill earlier this year that would address some of the concerns of workers and the casino industry. However, the proposed legislation heavily favored casinos, causing workers pushing for a complete ban to reject this proposal, insisting on improved measures to protect their health and safety.

The Casino Association of New Jersey opposes a smoking ban, citing concerns about its impact on competitiveness with neighboring states. However, workers are determined to push for change through legal action. The plight for safer working conditions has resonated across New Jersey, winning public support. While the lawsuit’s chances remain unclear, the UAW will explore every option to protect the casino worker community.

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After successfully concluding 10 months of intense negotiations, the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 is setting its sights on aggressive growth in the Las Vegas region for 2024. The union has finalized contracts with various hospitality entities, including Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International, and Wynn Resorts, covering nearly 50,000 non-gaming workers.

New Contracts Propel Expansion and Improved Conditions

One significant provision in these new contracts allows the union to organize nonunion restaurant workers within the properties, a move that has garnered support from many employees eager to improve their working conditions. 

Jose de Jesus Zuniga, a cook at Alexxa’s within Paris Las Vegas, expressed his desire for union representation, citing better wages and improved healthcare benefits as primary motivations, reported The Nevada Independent.

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226, highlighted plans for expansion, particularly targeting establishments such as Alexxa’s, Eataly at Park MGM, and Citizen’s at Mandalay Bay, potentially bringing in around 10,000 new members. 

The union has already secured neutrality agreements with prominent venues like The Venetian, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Sphere, and Formula One’s Grand Prix Plaza, indicating a significant step towards further growth.

The completion of the 2023 contracts, which saw a remarkable 32% salary increase over five years, marks a milestone for the union. Pappageorge emphasized that these agreements include vital provisions such as workload reductions, enhanced safety measures, and protections against technological advancements that could impact workers’ jobs.

Culinary Workers Forge Ahead Amidst Challenges in Las Vegas

Recent developments also include successful negotiations with previously nonunion giants like The Venetian and Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with agreements paving the way for potential union representation. Notably, The Venetian, historically resistant to unionization efforts, has seen a significant shift following a change in ownership and management.

Moreover, Culinary’s involvement in organizing concessions workers at Allegiant Stadium, backed by the NFL Players Association, underscores its commitment to expanding its influence across various sectors. Despite facing challenges with certain service providers, the union remains steadfast in its efforts to secure fair wages and benefits for all workers.

However, amidst these triumphs, the union continues to grapple with longstanding disputes, notably with Red Rock Resorts and its Station Casinos operating division. The ongoing standoff, now spanning over 25 years, reflects the enduring struggle between management and labor in the region.

As the Culinary Union embarks on its ambitious growth strategy, it not only seeks to improve the lives of thousands of workers but also aims to shape the economic and political landscape of Nevada. 

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Atlantic City, known for its vibrant casinos and bustling nightlife, has long been a hub for those seeking their luck at the card tables or slot machines. However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a persistent issue that has been plaguing the city’s workforce for years: secondhand smoke.

Advocates Emphasize Worker Well-being Over Financial Concerns 

A group of casino dealers, led by individuals like Pete Naccarelli, Nicole Vitola, and Lamont White, have spearheaded a movement called Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) aiming to outlaw smoking within the confines of the city’s gambling establishments. Their efforts have gained momentum, with workers coming together to demand a healthier work environment.

For Naccarelli, who has spent 27 years in the casino industry, dealing with the constant presence of secondhand smoke has taken its toll. He describes dealing with a table full of smokers as “torture,” highlighting the physical and mental strain it inflicts on him and his colleagues, as reported by the HuffPost. 

Despite the risks associated with prolonged exposure to smoke, the current regulations permit smoking on 25% of the gaming floor, leaving many workers feeling helpless and unprotected.

The push for a smoking ban in Atlantic City’s casinos is not a new endeavor. Similar initiatives have been met with resistance from casino operators, citing potential revenue losses and job cuts. 

However, advocates argue that the well-being of workers should take precedence over financial considerations. They stress the need for a comprehensive ban to ensure a smoke-free environment for all employees.

Labor Union Rifts Emerge Amid Atlantic City Smoking Ban Debate

The debate surrounding the smoking issue has also revealed rifts within the city’s labor unions. While some unions, like the United Auto Workers, have thrown their support behind the ban, others, such as Local 54, have expressed concerns about the economic implications. Despite differing opinions, workers remain united in their pursuit of a healthier workplace.

Legislators in Trenton have taken notice of the workers’ demands, with a bill to ban smoking in casinos making progress in the state Senate.

However, challenges remain as lobbying efforts intensify, reflecting the complex interplay between public health, economic interests, and political dynamics.

As the debate continues, casino workers like Naccarelli, Vitola, and White remain steadfast in their resolve to enact change. For them, it is not just about fighting for a smoke-free environment. It is about fighting for their lives. And as they rally for their cause, they hope that Atlantic City will soon become a beacon of progress in the ongoing battle against secondhand smoke.

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Atlantic City casino workers continue their fight for a smoke-free work environment. Their last battlefield was, unexpectedly, a senator’s office.

Representatives of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) and United Casino Workers (UAW) were staging a protest against Senator Vince Polistina’s recent change of heart. Polistina, who previously supported the smoke-free movements, recently agreed to allow casinos to seek compromise solutions.

As the temperatures outside plummeted, the activists were invited to discuss the matter inside.

CEASE Says Workers Will Be Forced to “Volunteer”

Under New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act, casinos can dedicate up to a quarter of their indoor gaming space as a smoking area. Opponents of this exemption say that it jeopardizes the health of casino workers who have to bear the smoke for hours at a time. However, casino operators believe that a ban would hurt their business.

While proponents of the ban have pointed out that casinos in other states have banned smoking with little to no effect on their business, AC operators remain adamant that they do not want smoking to go.

As a result, some have proposed compromise measures, such as enclosed smoking spaces. Under this solution, only volunteering workers would be dealing in these spaces. However, CEASE argues that operators would simply force workers to volunteer.

According to CEASE, casinos have previously put a pregnant woman and a person battling cancer at smoking tables.

Polistina Would Still Vote in Favor of Banning Smoking

Polistina told the activists that he agreed with them and that New Jersey should move on from indoor smoking. However, he had to change his stance because of politics, noting that the South Jersey Democratic delegation lost seats recently, making the fight for a smoking ban an uphill battle.

In addition, Polistina pointed out that Unite Here Local 54, another union representing casino staff, opposes the ban as it also believes that it would cause patrons to go elsewhere. Local 54 represents hospitality sector workers and has many more members than UAW, giving it a lot of leverage when it comes to such matters.

Despite that, Senator Polistina promised to vote in favor of a casino smoking ban if such a measure comes up for a vote in the Senate.

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Super Bowl LVIII, one of the most-anticipated National Football League (NFL) events for the year, is scheduled to take place on February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. While there are plenty of festive activities planned throughout the week before the game, Sin City visitors may see hospitality worker picket lines in front of downtown and Strip hotel casinos.

Last week, the Culinary Union, representing casino workers in the city successfully negotiated a new five-year contract for the employees at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. While this was a major success for the union and the workers, negotiations with 20 hotel casino resorts on the Las Vegas Strip and downtown continue and picket lines may be seen.

In a recent interview for The Nevada Independent, Ted Pappageorge, the Culinary Union’s secretary-treasurer, confirmed that picket lines can be seen in front of the properties just in time for the Super Bowl LVIII celebrations planned early in February. Pappageorge reaffirmed the need for a deadline, something that was announced by the Culinary Union earlier this month. At the time, the Union set February 2 at 5 AM as the deadline for the negotiations with the remaining 20 downtown and Strip hotel casinos.

Hospitality Employees Are Prepared to Go On Strike

Pappageorge spoke about the importance of the new contracts with the outstanding casino hotels, explaining that the workers there deserve the same benefits as the deals negotiated with the major operators in Sin City. He revealed that February 2 represents exactly nine months since the contracts of the hospitality workers expired.

While Pappageorge confirmed that the Unions want to avoid a strike, he said that “any responsible labor leader is going to do their best to reserve that right.” He confirmed that the workers at the resorts where contracts are outstanding are prepared to go on strike to secure better conditions, fair wages and job benefits.

“At the same time, these companies need to know things have changed since the pandemic. These companies are doing well and workers want their fair share and they’re prepared to strike to achieve that goal.“

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer for the Culinary Union

Last year, the Union reached agreements for new five-year contracts with Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts, the three leading casino and entertainment operators in Las Vegas. Recognized as a major win, the negotiations secured better working conditions, increased pay and job security for some 40,000 employees in the sector.

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Last year, casino workers in Missouri filed a class action lawsuit against Penn National Gaming and two of its casinos in the state, the Argosy Riverside Casino and Hollywood Casino St. Louis. In their lawsuit, the workers claimed that the trio breached multiple laws by illegally reducing their paychecks. Allegations filed by the casino workers claimed the companies reduced their paychecks to cover costs for maintaining, obtaining and renewing gaming licenses for Missouri.

Further allegations filed by the workers claimed the aforementioned companies created a tip pool applicable for table game dealers. Those tips were allegedly then used to cover paid time off for employees who were non-tipped such as supervisors and managers.

Judge Approves a $5.5 Million Settlement

According to the lawsuit, Penn National Gaming, Argosy Riverside Casino and Hollywood Casino breached the Fair Labor Standards Act. The casino workers alleged breaches of the Missouri Minimum Wage Law and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.

Representing the plaintiffs are lawyers George A. Hanson, Alexander T. Ricke from Stueve Siegel Hanson LLP, as well as Ryan L. McClelland and Michael J. Rahmberg of McClelland Law Firm, P.C.

According to a report released by Missouri Lawyers Media, a judge recently approved a $5.5 million settlement, siding with the casino workers. US District Judge Stephen R. Bough, gave an initial approval last year in January. Now, as confirmed in the recent report, the judge gave final approval for the settlement of the lawsuit on May 25.

From the approved $5.5 million settlement, some 35% will be allocated toward attorneys’ fees. The Kaufman Fund along with Angels’ Arms, two charity organizations are going to benefit from unspent money.

Elsewhere in Missouri, twelve ballot initiatives will seek to pave the way for legal sports betting across the state. Supported by professional sports teams and legislators, the activity is yet to be legalized across Missouri. Each of the 12 proposals can appear on the Ballot in November, subject to collecting a minimum of 171,592 signatures by May this year.

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