Horseshoe Indianapolis Casino Workers Initiate Strike Amid Federal Shutdown Challenges

Strike Emerges Over Union Recognition Delay

More than 200 employees at Horseshoe Indianapolis casino have walked off the job to protest the halted progress in their union recognition campaign. Their main focus is on securing stronger collective bargaining rights, although no additional demands have been put forward at this time. The ongoing federal government shutdown has disrupted the process that would allow them to formalize their union status.

Union Election Postponed Due to Federal Shutdown

The group, mostly consisting of table game dealers and supervisors working multiple roles, was set to vote on joining Teamsters Local 135 last Friday. However, this vote has been postponed indefinitely because the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which oversees union elections, is not operational amidst the shutdown due to lack of federal funding.

Employees feel they lack any effective way to move forward with unionization as the NLRB’s absence means there is no mechanism to conduct or certify elections, handle vote counting, or settle disputes. While the National Labor Relations Act protects workers’ rights to organize, these rights cannot be practically exercised without the NLRB’s administrative support.

Dustin Roach, president of Teamsters Local 135, expressed frustration that the shutdown should not deprive workers of their right to unionize. The union, representing slot attendants and warehouse staff at Horseshoe Indianapolis, suggested conducting the election under the supervision of an impartial third party. However, management declined this proposal.

Federal Shutdown Adds Complexity to Labor Disputes

What makes this strike unusual is that it is occurring before the workers have officially become unionized. Typically, strikes happen following failed negotiations or due to unfair labor practices. The current walkout appears designed to urge the casino management to voluntarily recognize the union or accept a different voting method.

The shutdown has caused nationwide delays in labor proceedings, possibly leading to a backlog once government funding resumes. Even though enforcement mechanisms are paused, legal experts stress that employers still need to respect employees’ rights to organize. Those participating in the strike emphasize that their goal is to ensure fairness and responsibility rather than disrupt operations needlessly.

Local union representatives see this as an example of persistent organizing efforts continuing despite the lack of federal oversight. Without a scheduled date for the election, the employees have pledged to maintain their strike action until discussions with management yield progress or a resolution is found.