PORTSMOUTH — Workers at Hampton Roads’ first casino ratified a union contract — the first casino employees in Virginia to do so.
Represented by Teamsters Local 822, workers at Rivers Casino Portsmouth ratified the collective bargaining agreement with a 95% vote, according to a release. The contract addresses negotiated working conditions — such as pay, benefits, time off and safety on the job.
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Teamsters Local 822 President James Wright said the move sets a precedent in the state’s growing gaming industry.
“This is history in the making,” he said. “For the first time, Virginia gaming workers have a legally binding union contract that delivers guaranteed raises, strong benefits, and just cause protections. This agreement proves that when workers stand together, they can transform their industry.”
The Portsmouth casino opened in 2023 and is one of three casinos operational in the state.
Raises of nearly 16% over the life of the contract are included. The deal also locked in employer-paid health care coverage, protections from at-will employment and additional paid time off, according to the Teamsters, who represent more than 3,000 workers across Hampton Roads. The commonwealth’s other two casinos are in Bristol and Danville. But a fourth is on the way. The state Lottery Board approved a gaming license this week that will allow a temporary casino to open in Norfolk. That facility is expected to open next month while construction on the permanent casino and resort continues. It is expected to open in 2027.
