Historic Union Contract Achieved by Rivers Casino Teamsters in Virginia

On October 31, 2025, workers at Rivers Casino in Portsmouth, Virginia celebrated a monumental victory as they ratified a collective bargaining agreement with an impressive 95 percent approval rate. This landmark contract marks a historic moment as the first group of casino workers in Virginia to secure a union contract, establishing new standards for wages, benefits, and workplace rights within the state's burgeoning gaming industry.

James Wright, the President of Teamsters Local 822, hailed the achievement, stating, "This is history in the making. For the first time, Virginia gaming workers have a legally binding union contract that provides guaranteed raises, comprehensive benefits, and just-cause protections." He emphasized that this agreement exemplifies the power of solidarity among workers, noting that united efforts can lead to transformative changes in their respective industries.

Under the provisions of the ratified contract, casino workers are set to receive wage increases totaling 15.95 percent over the contract's duration. The agreement also ensures that workers will have access to employer-paid health care, safeguarding them from at-will employment conditions and providing extra paid time off. Workers now possess a sense of security that was previously elusive in the volatile gaming sector.

Natasha O'Guinn, a slot attendant at Rivers and a proud member of Teamsters Local 822, expressed her gratitude for the contract, saying, "This contract means stability for me and my family. I know my job is protected, my health care is covered, and my wages, along with tips, allow me to plan for the future. We now have a voice and a fair contract that respects our daily contributions."

The victory resonates beyond the casino's walls, as Teamsters Local 822 represents over 3,000 workers across the Tidewater area, encompassing various industries. The successful ratification of this contract is poised to inspire similar labor movements throughout Virginia's gaming sector and beyond, encouraging workers in other industries to pursue collective bargaining agreements that ensure their needs and rights are prioritized.

As Virginia continues to expand its gaming industry, the implications of this contract are profound. It sets a precedent for fair labor practices and serves as a model for how collective bargaining can lead to significant advancements in workers’ rights. The outcome of the recent voting highlights the strategic importance of unions like Teamsters Local 822, which play a crucial role in uniting workers to advocate for improved workplace conditions.

Conclusion

This historic union contract not only reflects the resolve and unity displayed by the workers at Rivers Casino but also symbolizes a larger movement towards securing fair labor rights within the gaming industry. As labor unions continue to fight for equitable treatment, this achievement stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when workers come together with a shared purpose. For more information about Teamsters Local 822 and their ongoing initiatives, visit www.teamsters822.com.