It turns out the recent flooding that closed Caesars Southern Indiana isn't the only issue management is dealing with.
Casino employees in Southern Indiana are gearing up for a strike after contract negotiations with Caesars Southern Indiana and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians broke down.
The strike follows a deadline set by Teamsters Local 89, which expired without a response from casino management.
A Fight for Fair Contracts
According to the Teamsters Local 89, their bargaining committee had given Caesars Southern Indiana and its owners, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, until noon on Saturday to agree to a new contract.
The union claimed that after months of negotiation and a month since the previous contract expired, no agreement was in sight. Management's lack of response was described as showing a “lack of care and respect for the workers who make them the most profitable casino in the state.”
Union representatives emphasized that their demands are not unreasonable, as they aim to secure the ability for employees to “retire with dignity.” The Teamsters dubbed the impending strike a result of “the company’s greed” and “unfair labor practices” since the contract’s expiration.
This is also happening as the future of online casinos in Indiana remains in doubt.
Current Casino Conditions
The strike comes at a time when Caesars Southern Indiana is already dealing with other challenges.
The casino and its hotel have been temporarily closed due to flooding from the Ohio River. Storms that hit the area in early March caused the river to rise, cresting near 30 feet.
Caesars stated on their X account and Facebook page that the establishment would remain closed "until further notice," and all scheduled promotions, events, and entertainment have been canceled. The company monitors the situation closely and is awaiting reduced water levels to reopen safely.
History of Casinos in Indiana
Indiana's casino industry has a rich history, having evolved significantly over the years.
The first casinos in the state were launched in the mid-1990s following a 1993 law that allowed riverboat gambling. Initially, casinos in the Hoosier State had to remain mobile, hence the riverboat concept, but regulations changed over time, allowing these venues a more permanent home on land.
With its proximity to the Ohio River, Southern Indiana became a prime location for several riverboat casinos.
Caesars Southern Indiana, formerly Horseshoe Southern Indiana, is a key player in this industry.
The casino has been a major employer and economic contributor to the region. However, like any major enterprise, it has faced its share of challenges, including competition, regulatory changes, and now, labor disputes.
Call for Community Support
The Teamsters have announced a picket line outside the casino once it reopens. The union urges its members, allies, supporters, and the broader community to stand in solidarity with the workers by not crossing the picket line and boycotting Caesars Southern Indiana until an agreement is reached.
Caesars Southern Indiana has expressed commitment to the bargaining process, indicating that it remains open to continuing discussions with the union to achieve a resolution. Both parties recognize the importance of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement and hope to resolve the dispute soon.
If it does take a while to resolve, Indiana residents can legally access sweepstakes casinos, including:
You can also check out the list of the best social casinos, and you can try them for free anytime!
Their other option is to visit neighboring states like Michigan, where real-money online casinos are fully legalized. Just remember to pleas gamble responsibly.
