Cherokee Nation suspends operations until May 1

All full-time and part-time employees will continue to receive pay and benefits.

US.- Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr has announced that the Cherokee Nation will extend the closure of all its gaming venues until May 1.

The measure includes all ten of its gaming and hospitality destinations, cultural museums and retail operations.

“We are working closely with local, state and federal officials, alongside tribal health experts and business leaders, to make the best decisions we can during these uncertain times,” Hoskin said.

 “Our top priority is the health, safety and well-being of our employees, and so far no employee has had to use sick or vacation time during this closure.

“We will continue to monitor and respond to the Covid-19 pandemic and will announce further plans as we approach May 1,” he added.

According to Arkansas Online, all regular full-time and part-time employees will continue to receive full pay and benefits.

There are around 11,000 workers employed across the tribe’s business enterprises.

Casinos in the Cherokee Nation were first closed on March 16, when Hoskin declared a state of emergency.