A union representing casino workers on Wednesday asked Caesars Entertainment Corp.’s new board of directors to consider safety, protections against discrimination and other concerns during contract negotiations set to kick off next year, Reuters reported yesterday. Caesars’ main operating unit last week exited a three-year, $18 billion bankruptcy. The company owns the Caesars Palace, Harrah’s and Horseshoe brands with locations across the country, but earns the majority of its operating profit in Las Vegas, where contracts expire on May 31. Unite Here represents 20,000 union members who cook, clean and serve at Caesars’ hotels and casinos, including almost 14,000 Las Vegas workers. Employees’ ability to provide for their families was eroded following the 2008 leveraged buyout of Caesars and protracted bankruptcy proceedings, the union said. With the casino group on firmer financial footing, Unite Here said it wants to establish a new working relationship with the company. The union also asked Caesars to come to the bargaining table with proposals on issues such as health care, training, retirement and safety.
