Caesars Entertainment could fire employees for not wearing masks

It has been less than two weeks since Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak’s mask mandate went into effect, but already businesses are under extreme scrutiny after surveys showed that only about two-thirds are complying.

In the memo, Rodio says that employees are “doing an excellent job” following the company’s and the state’s new rule, adding that properties have been “impressed” with how quickly guests are adjusting.

“We are working to achieve 100% compliance with guests, but we must take strong action if team members violate the rule to always wear their masks at work except when eating or drinking,” the memo reads. “Please take note, the failure to wear your mask at work will be grounds for termination.”

Penalties for noncompliance among businesses include written notice from the Nevada OSHA as well as a US$135,000 fine if violations persist. Continued noncompliance could result in the forced closure of businesses.

In the latest numbers, casino floors and bars showed a compliance rate of 80%, while pools showed only 40% compliance.

The memo goes on to say: “We are taking this action to emphasize the seriousness with which we must all take the efforts to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 at work and in our communities, and to promote the health and wellbeing of every team member.”

On Friday, July 3, after initial data showed only a 49% mask mandate compliance rate among Nevada businesses, Governor Sisolak threatened action against specific areas and industries if the numbers did not improve.

As of Monday this week, Nevada has seen nearly 23,000 positive COVID-19 cases and a total 537 deaths. Those numbers have spiked in recent weeks as the state’s testing capacity continues to increase and more businesses reopen.

Source: GMB / KSNV