In a significant development, the Culinary Union has successfully reached a tentative agreement on a new labor deal with the Venetian and Palazzo. This achievement comes after a 20-year struggle by the union to secure rights for the workers at these properties.
The announcement of the agreement was made by the Culinary Union on August 20. The deal, which spans four years, is now pending ratification by the 4,000 non-gaming employees who work at the Venetian and Palazzo. While specific details of the agreement have not been made public, it is anticipated that the terms will be in line with the recent labor deals reached by other operators in Las Vegas.
Over the past year, similar agreements in the city have included substantial raises of up to 32% over the life of the contracts, along with various protections for workers. The duration of the Venetian-Palazzo deal, lasting four years, is intended to synchronize with the expiration of other contracts in 2028.
The unionization of these properties holds particular significance as they were previously among the few non-unionized establishments on the Las Vegas Strip, particularly during the tenure of their former owner, Sheldon Adelson. With this latest development, only Fontainebleau and Resorts World remain without labor contracts. Fontainebleau had previously reached a neutrality agreement with the union before its opening in December, while Resorts World has chosen not to engage in further negotiations following the rejection of their last offer in May.
Reflecting on the significance of this agreement, Culinary Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge emphasized the long-term impact of the deal, stating that it is not just about the present moment but about establishing a lasting legacy of fairness and respect for working families in Las Vegas. The culmination of this agreement marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to protect the rights and welfare of laborers in the city.