Red Rock Casino veteran Robert Franz shares struggles after pandemic layoffs

In a heartfelt moment at the December 2024 Nevada Gaming Commission meeting, Boulder City native Robert Franz shared his emotional journey as a long-time employee of Red Rock Casino. Franz, who began his career at the casino in 2006, recounted his rise from a banquet server to a full-time position, emphasizing his loyalty to the company and the sacrifices he made, including turning down job offers from other properties.

However, the narrative took a turn when the pandemic hit in 2020. Franz revealed that upon Red Rock's reopening, he was not reinstated despite his extensive experience and dedication. Instead, he faced a frustrating reality: competing weekly for shifts against new hires, despite having spent 14 years building his career there. "Every Tuesday, I get an email about banquet shifts at Red Rock. On Thursday, I compete with other banquet servers for the work," he explained, highlighting the unfairness of his situation.

Franz's testimony resonated with many in attendance, shedding light on the challenges faced by workers in the gaming industry during the pandemic recovery. His story underscores the need for fair treatment and recognition of long-serving employees as the industry continues to navigate its post-pandemic landscape. The commission's response to such testimonies could shape future policies regarding employee rights and job security in Nevada's gaming sector.