In addition to formation of the new TWU/UAW/SEIU/AFL-CIO Gaming Workers Council, the AFL-CIO Executive Council passed a resolution at its most recent meeting calling on all gaming employers to stop violating federal labor law and to begin bargaining in good faith.

The resolution stated: “The gaming industry long has been known for providing good union jobs with stable employment, solid wages and benefits. While that reputation is deserved for certain portions of the workforce, thousands of gaming workers do not enjoy the security of union contracts.”

The resolution continued: “In the past two years, dealers, slot technicians and other gaming workers who traditionally have not been organized have formed unions, won elections and in some instances are bargaining contracts. In New Jersey, Connecticut, Nevada and Indiana, these workers have waged heroic fights to win justice and a real say in their working conditions. “Unfortunately, employer opposition stands in the way of achieving real justice. Casino owners have fired worker-activists, intimidated workers during elections and refused to bargain despite overwhelming union victory margins in certified National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) elections.”

The resolution urged statewide elected leaders to wield their influence to break the bargaining logjam.