This development marks the first successful unionization effort of casino workers in Virginia, potentially inspiring others to follow in their footsteps
Workers at Rivers Casino Portsmouth have made state history by becoming the first casino employees in Virginia to ratify a union contract. This development marks a significant victory for organized labor in the state’s gambling sector. The employees, represented by Teamsters Local 822, approved the deal with 95% of the votes, securing significant gains in wages, benefits, and job security.
Workers Spent Months Organizing
The contract delivers an average 15.95% salary increase during its duration, in addition to employer-paid health coverage, expanded paid leave, and protection from at-will termination. For many workers, the agreement marks not only a financial win but also a hard-fought recognition of their collective power.
Rivers Casino employees note that the new agreement brings much-anticipated security. In addition to the substantial benefits, workers now have a way to make their voices heard, ensuring fair representation. James Wright, Teamsters Local 822 president, added that this successful unionization would set a standard for fairness across the state’s gaming industry.
For the first time, Virginia gaming workers have a legally binding union contract that delivers guaranteed raises, strong benefits, and just cause protections.
James Wright, Teamsters Local 822 president
Teamsters Local 822, which represents over 3,000 employees in the Tidewater area, noted that the victory was the result of months of coordinated organizing. In just a few months, employees have secured what many are calling a model agreement for future negotiations across the state. The union hoped that more casino workers would follow Rivers Casino’s example and band together.
Casino Sector Unionization Marches On
The Portsmouth agreement aligns with a broader trend of labor organizing in the US casino sector. Spurred by challenging economic conditions, workers are increasingly turning to unions to demand fair pay and predictable scheduling in a business known for its unpredictable hours and tip-based pay…