Workers at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas have ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement, securing higher wages, improved benefits, and additional workplace protections.
The agreement covers 62 employees represented by Teamsters Local 986, including front desk workers, laborers, warehouse staff, and valet attendants.
According to the union, the contract delivers a 15% wage increase over the term of the agreement, enhanced vacation policies, and continued coverage under the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan.
Employees will also gain access to the Teamsters’ 401(k) retirement plan and receive job protections related to the introduction of new technologies.
Teamsters Local 986 President, Tim Vera, said: “Our members stood strong, and management had no other choice but to deliver.”
Vera added: “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 agreement follows a period of prolonged negotiations between the union and Dreamscape Companies, the owner of the Rio property.
Talks stretched for nearly two years before workers voted on November 10 to authorize a strike, citing unfair labor practices. While a strike was ultimately avoided, union officials said the authorization vote played a key role in moving negotiations forward.
Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division, said: “Management dragged out negotiations and our members held them accountable.”
Blitsch added: “We don’t tolerate delays and disrespect toward our members. We’re always prepared to take action and win.”
Employees also emphasized the importance of stability and security provided by the new agreement.
Malinda Zarcone, a front desk worker and union steward, said: “All we asked for was a fair contract that allows us to do our job without worrying.”
Zarcone added: “Now we can come to work knowing that management listened and that our labor is respected.”
The Teamsters represent nearly 6,000 workers across casino and casino hotel properties nationwide, reflecting a broader push by the union to expand its presence within the US gaming sector.
Earlier this month, more than 250 workers at Gold Strike Casino Resort in Mississippi voted to join Teamsters Local 667 through a card-check process, citing goals of higher wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions. The move was described by the union as part of a wider effort to raise labor standards across the casino industry.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was founded in 1903 and represents more than 1.3 million workers across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico
