Bally’s Corporation has entered into a neutrality agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, granting employees at its three Black Hawk casinos the opportunity to pursue union representation. This agreement introduces a card check method, allowing employees to authorize representation by signing cards instead of going through a traditional election process.
The accord applies to Bally’s East, Bally’s North, and Bally’s West, a set of interconnected casinos located in Black Hawk, a key gaming hub in Colorado. Notably, it does not include Bally’s Arapahoe Park, the company’s racetrack and casino situated in Aurora.
“With this new card check procedure, Bally’s employees in Black Hawk, Colorado, can select Teamsters representation simply by signing authorization cards. Once a majority within a specific unit signs, Bally’s will promptly recognize them as Teamsters,” stated a joint announcement from both the company and the union.
This agreement enhances the Teamsters’ expanding presence within local gaming markets. Established in 1903, the union boasts 1.3 million members across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Recently, the Teamsters have achieved organizing victories at various casinos.
In September, 85 cashiers and cage staff at Encore Boston Harbor voted to join Teamsters Local 25. Earlier this year, slot machine workers at Hard Rock Casino Rockford in Illinois expressed their support for Teamsters representation, following successful organizing efforts involving valet and warehouse employees at that location.
“The Teamsters Union and Bally’s Black Hawk have reached an agreement prioritizing workers. This is the pathway to elevating standards across an entire industry—empowering employees to unionize without fear,” remarked Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien.
“Bally’s workforce is the pulse of the organization. Now they have the opportunity to gain the protection, strength, and long-term benefits associated with being Teamsters, ensuring Bally’s continues to thrive for years to come.”
“Our staff is integral to our mission,” stated Soo Kim, Chairman of Bally’s Corporation. “This agreement showcases our dedication to engaging, learning, and collaborating with the Teamsters to enhance the support for our employees and the communities we serve.”
Bally’s three Black Hawk casinos feature over 540 slot machines, 33 table games, and a dedicated poker room.