Encore Boston furloughs at least 3,000 employees and managers amid pandemic

BOSTON — Encore Boston Harbor Casino has announced they have furloughed 3,000 employees and managers, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for the decision.

According to a statement from the company, a number of these employees will return to work for training once a definitive date has been established for the casino’s reopening. The remainder will continue to be on furlough until business demand dictates their return.

The main reason for furloughing their employees is due to the numerous reductions required for physical distancing within the building.

Casinos are included in Phase 3 of Governor Baker’s phased plan to reopen the state, meaning that, best-case scenario, Encore will be allowed to reopen after July 6; there is still no clear indication of when they can re-open.

An extensive health and safety plan has been put in place not only by Encore Boston Harbor but by the two other casino operators in the state, as directed by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.

When the pandemic began in Massachusetts, Encore’s parent company Wynn Resorts committed to continue paying all employees across North America despite being unable to operate, including average distributed tips and benefits from the original date of closure through May 31, 2020. The casino officially closed down on March 15, 2020.

Due to the novel coronavirus, current directives restrict gaming and lodging capacities for the casino and the hotel.

There will be limited casino offering, limited table games, reduced slot machines with physical distancing, reduced beverage service, limited food and beverage options, limited hotel amenities and overnight stays at the hotel will be limited to 4 nights per week.

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