MGM Springfield Dealers Protest Management's Ignorance Of Union Vote

SPRINGFIELD, MA — Table game and poker dealers took to the sidewalk in front of MGM Springfield Friday morning, to protest what they say is the casino management's lack of action concerning a vote to unionize more than a year ago.

In March 2024, dealers voted to join New England Joint Board Unite Here, which already represents about 400 other workers at the $970 million downtown casino.

A flyer being handed out by protesters stated, "MGM challenged the election results again and again, causing continued litigation and delays. MGM has lost every time so far. MGM would rather spend its money on lawyers than negotiate fair wages and benefits for the dealers."

Dealers claim hours have been cut to some part-time workers, management has enforced its policies against workers more strictly, fired union supporters and denied dealers their rights under federal law.

"The dealers voted for a union. MGM ignored their vote and disrespected their choice. The dealers deserve better! Springfield deserves better!" according to the handout.

By publication time, MGM Springfield President Louis Theros had not yet returned an email message from Patch seeking comment.