Caesars lays off workers in Las Vegas

Casino operator cutting jobs due to the Coronavirus crisis.

US.- Caesars Entertainment Corp. has begun cutting jobs due to the Coronavirus crisis, according to information published by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

The casino giant informed employees that it will suspend contracts “due to unforeseeable, unexpected and sudden reduced business levels as a result of COVID-19″.

The company also said it was “unable to make a determination as to whether the layoff will be temporary or permanent.”

The document sent to employees announcing the layoff said the decision was taken in accordance with the federal Worker Adjustment Restraining Notification, and was shared with less than 60 days notice because the layoff is due to an “unforeseeable business circumstance.”

The document also said Caesars would ensure employees are “paid all earned wages and agreed upon benefits” at the time of their termination.

Caesars becomes the second Vegas operators to lay-off full-time employees. MGM Resorts International began cutting jobs on Friday.

According to a statement from Culinary Union Local 226 spokeswoman, Bethany Khan, the union has new proposals on the table for additional worker protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are about 60,000 workers in Las Vegas with union contracts, including Caesars employees.

In a statement to members, the union said it would “continue to negotiate with casino and hotel employers to protect workers during these difficult times.”

“We are working with the employers to identify any job opportunities and make sure they are made available to laid-off workers, including available work in other classifications if needed and if worker is qualified,” the statement added.