Posted on: October 2, 2023, 06:20h. 

Last updated on: October 2, 2023, 06:20h.

Unionized workers at Detroit’s gaming properties overwhelmingly indicated they are ready for a potential strike. On Friday, 99% of the union members voting authorized a strike for later this month. This could impact sports betting in the area.

A potential strike could occur as early as October 16, when current contracts expire. This could disrupt the operations of MGM Grand Detroit, Hollywood Casino at Greektown, and MotorCity Casino Hotel.

Workers are seeking wage increases, retirement benefits, and protection from the impact of new technology in ongoing negotiations.

The Detroit Casino Council (DCC) represents the workers and highlights the sacrifices made by them during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. They are now demanding fair salaries for their members.

These employees occupy various positions within the casinos, including food and beverage, housekeeping, retail, and gaming areas.

“We’re the people who worked with the companies through COVID and put in the time, energy, hard work,” said Terri Sykes, UAW Local 7777 president. “The message our members are sending to these companies is that the casino workers at MGM Grand, MotorCity, and Hollywood at Greektown are ready to stand together and fight for what we deserve.”

The previous three-year contract extension in September 2020 only included minimal wage increases, according to the DCC statement. However, gaming revenues have reached record levels in recent times, with Detroit casinos generating a record $2.27 billion in revenue last year.

The DCC predicts that revenues for this year are on track for another record year.

All Options on the Table

“Just like auto workers, Blue Cross Blue Shield staff, UPS workers, writers, and hotel workers, Detroit casino workers are considering all options available to ensure a job in a Detroit casino is enough to raise a family on,” said Nia Winston, Unite Here Local 24 president. “We expect the casinos to take our concerns seriously to avoid a strike.”

The DCC is composed of Unite Here Local 24, the UAW, Teamsters Local 1038, Operating Engineers Local 324, and the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters.

Las Vegas Vote

At the same time, members of the Las Vegas-based Culinary and Bartenders Union recently authorized a strike at gaming properties in Las Vegas. This union represents hotel and restaurant workers, bartenders, and other staff at major resorts along the Las Vegas Strip.

The contracts with MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn/Encore Resorts expired in June but were extended through September. However, if negotiations fail to produce a new contract, a strike is now on the table.

Over 95% of Culinary Union members voted to authorize the strike.

Furthermore, approximately 25,000 members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) are currently on strike at various plants in Michigan and other locations.