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US casinos raise wages and rethink policies amid post-pandemic challenges

From $100M wage boosts to smoke-free campaigns, the casino world is transforming. Can higher pay and safer spaces revive an industry still reeling?

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US casinos raise wages and rethink policies amid post-pandemic challenges

Casinos across the US are facing major changes as they recover from the pandemic. Rising wages, hiring struggles, and debates over smoking policies have taken centre stage. Industry leaders recently gathered in Atlantic City to discuss these challenges at the 25th Annual East Coast Gaming Congress (ECGC).

One of the biggest shifts involves pay. Hard Rock International has pledged $100 million to boost wages for non-tipped hourly staff, while Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut has already raised its minimum wage to $14.50 an hour—up from $10.50 just two years ago.

The labour shortage remains the top concern for casino operators. While Atlantic City casinos now employ 878 more people than in June 2021, staffing levels still fall short of pre-pandemic numbers. With workers in high demand, casinos are raising pay to keep employees and reduce turnover.

At the ECGC, executives debated how COVID-19 has reshaped the industry. Some traditional casino features, like buffets, have not returned, forcing operators to rethink their offerings. David Cordish of Cordish Companies argued that clean, safe environments are now essential for attracting customers and ensuring long-term growth. Outside the conference, a separate debate unfolded. Advocates for a smoke-free Atlantic City campaigned near Hard Rock, pushing for stricter indoor smoking bans. While Pennsylvania law generally prohibits smoking in casinos, specific rules for Philadelphia venues would need confirmation from state regulators. The issue remains unresolved, with no recent changes reported in local smoking regulations.

The casino industry is adapting to a new reality shaped by higher wages, staffing shortages, and shifting customer expectations. Operators are investing in better pay and cleaner facilities to stay competitive. Meanwhile, discussions over smoking policies and post-pandemic operations are likely to continue as the sector evolves.

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