#ContractNOW: Thousands picket MGM Resorts & Caesars Entertainment in the Las Vegas Strip -
LAS VEGAS - For the first time in nearly two decades, thousands of Culinary and Bartenders Union members picketed on the Las Vegas Strip on October 12, 2023 in front 8 different MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment Corporation casinos, as hospitality workers have authorized a strike and continue negotiations for a new 5-year union contract. VP Kamala Harris stopped by the Culinary Union HQ to show her support to picketing Culinary Union members. Among other items in negotiations, the Culinary Union has proposed language making clear that the no-strike clause does not prevent the Culinary Union from taking action, including strikes, against non-union restaurants on the casino property, and gives casino workers the right to respect picket lines. Other key proposals are: Expanded safety and technology language, reducing workload for guest room attendants, and substantial wage and benefit increases. Contracts covering 43,000 MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts workers are expired and with an active picket line beginning this week at MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment properties, there is now an active labor dispute with 18 casino properties across the Las Vegas Strip. The Culinary Union, which is now authorized to call for a strike at any date or time, has not yet set a strike deadline and continues negotiating in good faith with all gaming companies. The Culinary Union urges members of the public, customers, community allies, elected officials, and convention planners to not cross an active picket line and to stand in solidarity with workers by not eating, meeting, or staying in a casino resort during an active picket line. www.culinaryunion226.org