Rio Hotel and Casino workers ratify four-year collective bargaining agreement

• It has taken nearly two years for tens of front desk, warehouse workers and valet attendants to reach a new agreement for better pay and work benefits
• The workers overwhelmingly ratified a strong four-year collective bargaining agreement, represented by Teamsters Local 986
• Tim Vera, Teamsters Local 986's President, speaks about the importance of the new agreement

After two years of unsuccessful negotiations, workers at a popular Las Vegas hotel and casino can finally benefit from a collective bargaining agreement.

That is the case for more than 60 workers at Rio Hotel and Casino, who overwhelmingly support a new four-year bargaining agreement and can now benefit from a range of perks.

Newly ratified agreement brings better pay, employment benefits

Represented by Teamsters Local 986, 62 front desk and warehouse workers, laborers, as well as valet attendants, overwhelmingly ratified the new strong four-year bargaining agreement.

Ultimately, the effort will bring a range of benefits for the tens of workers, including higher wages and stronger workplace protection.

Per the four-year deal, the Rio Hotel and Casino employees will see their wages increase by 15%.

They also unlock better vacation policies and ongoing coverage under the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan.

Equally as important, the jobs of the workers will be protected against technology under the contract, and they will have the option to tap into the Teamsters 401(k) plan.

In November, Rio Hotel and Casino workers voted on the authorization of a strike over unfair labor practices.

After nearly two years of unsuccessful negotiations, but now, the strong four-year collective bargaining agreement averts a potential strike.

The collective bargaining agreement marks a major win for the workers

Tommy Blitsch, the Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show and Casino Division, commented, Casino Guru News learned from a press release.

"Management dragged out negotiations and our members held them accountable," he said.

Finally, Blitsch pointed out: "We don't tolerate delays and disrespect toward our members. We're always prepared to take action and win."

Tim Vera, Teamsters Local 986's President, added: "Our members stood strong, and management had no other choice but to deliver."

Finally, Vera pointed out: "This win belongs to every worker who refused to be ignored, and it proves that when we fight as one, we secure real improvements."

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters helps more than 1.3m people across the United States, in Puerto Rico and Canada.

Within the casino and hotel vertical, the union represents nearly 6,000 hardworking people.

Image credit: Pixabay.com