UAW News Release, 08/23/07

Atlantic City:  In another victory for the growing movement for dignity on the job in Atlantic City, a majority of slot technicians at Caesars casino voted today in favor of UAW representation.

Sixty-five percent of those participating in the election voted in favor of UAW representation; the new bargaining unit will include about 35 employees.

“Workers are standing up for a voice in the workplace all across Atlantic City and our union is excited to support their efforts,” said Joe Ashton, director of UAW Region 9, which includes New Jersey. “A majority of workers at three casinos this year have decided to form their own unions and we’ve also got a vote scheduled this Saturday for dealers at Tropicana, and on Sept. 1 for cashiers at Caesars.”

Bargaining for a first contract began Aug. 9 at Caesars for full- and part-time dealers and keno and simulcast employees. Slot techs will now also have the ability to formulate contract proposals and join together to improve their workplace.

“Gaming industry workers have a home in the UAW,” said UAW Secretary-Treasurer Elizabeth Bunn, who directs the union’s Technical, Office and Professional (TOP) Organizing Department. “We’re proud that more and more casino workers in Atlantic City want to be part of our union.”

The UAW, one of the nation’s largest and most diverse labor unions, represents 6,000 gaming employees in Detroit, Atlantic City and Newport, R.I.