Encore Boston Harbor Workers Vote to Authorize Strike

Approximately 1,300 unionized employees at Encore Boston Harbor voted on August 21 to authorize a strike against Wynn Resorts after contract negotiations stalled. Represented by UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25, the workers reportedly approved the measure with over 95% support. The current contracts expire on August 31, and union leaders stated they will not provide advance notice if a walkout begins.

The unions are demanding a $25 per hour base pay and wage increases of $10 over four years for non-tipped employees and $5 for tipped employees, alongside guarantees for pensions, healthcare, and job security. Union leaders argue the resort can afford these increases following $846.9 million in 2025 revenue. They claim the company's current offers are less than half of the requested rates and attempt to remove guaranteed work hour provisions.

Wynn Resorts stated its proposal is grounded in financial reality and argued that signing an unsustainable agreement could put jobs at risk. A company spokesperson added that the organization is built on a philosophy of ensuring employees feel valued and well compensated.

Teamsters Local 25 President Thomas Mari has urged the public to boycott the resort if a strike occurs, stating that Teamsters do not cross picket lines. To support the workers, Teamsters President Sean O’Brien noted the availability of a $365 million Strike Defense Fund.