Employees at Golden Nugget Atlantic City have unanimously agreed to a one-year contract extension with UNITE HERE Local 54, which was finalized on Thursday night. This new agreement not only maintains existing benefits and protections but also introduces wage increases for all workers involved.
According to reports from The Press of Atlantic City, every employee who participated in the ratification vote was in favor of the deal. The contract preserves the advancements achieved during the union's negotiations in 2022, ensures that benefit coverage remains at 100%, and includes wage hikes for those covered.
This agreement is part of Local 54’s strategy to implement one-year contracts with Atlantic City casinos this year, moving away from the longer-term agreements that have typically defined labor relations in the area. Similar short-term arrangements have been reached with most of the city's casino establishments.
The shift to shorter contracts comes as the Atlantic City casino sector grapples with several outstanding issues that could impact its future. In the next year or two, three new casinos are anticipated to open in New York City, which will heighten competition for Atlantic City properties and their clientele.
Additionally, New Jersey lawmakers are contemplating whether to present another casino expansion referendum to voters. This proposal would query the public on allowing casinos in North Jersey, potentially establishing a new gaming hub in the state and altering the competitive landscape for Atlantic City operators.
Another ongoing issue is the debate over indoor smoking in casinos. Some workers are advocating for a total ban on smoking inside Atlantic City casinos, a change that could have significant implications for both employee working conditions and casino operations.
With the Golden Nugget contract finalized, Bally’s Atlantic City remains the only casino in the area without a new agreement with Local 54. Negotiations between Bally’s and the union are expected to continue next week.