Maverick Shuts 8 Washington Casinos: What It Means for 850 Workers

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-02

### Eight Casinos to Close in Washington State Maverick Washington LLC is closing eight casinos across Washington on November 30. The move puts 850 jobs at risk. This comes as its parent company works through Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. ### Which Casinos Are Closing? The affected properties are: - Great American Casino in Everett - Chip’s Casino, Macau Casino, and Palace Casino in Lakewood - All Star Casino in Silverdale - Casino Caribbean in Yakima - Crazy Moose Casino in Pasco - Coyote Bob’s Casino in Kennewick Maverick filed separate Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notices with the Washington Employment Security Department. These notices are required when a company plans mass layoffs or closures. They give workers advance warning and time to prepare. ### Why Is This Happening? The parent company is restructuring under Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This legal process allows a business to reorganize its debts while continuing to operate. But sometimes, it means cutting unprofitable locations. For Maverick, closing these eight casinos is part of that restructuring. The closures will affect not just employees but also local communities. Casinos often provide jobs and tax revenue. When they close, the ripple effects can be felt across the area. ### What Does This Mean for Workers? For the 850 people who work at these casinos, the future is uncertain. The WARN notices give them 60 days' notice. That's little comfort, but it's a start. They can begin job hunting, seek retraining, or explore other options. Some may find work at other casinos in the state. Others might need to look outside the industry. The timing is tough, with the holiday season approaching. ### The Bigger Picture The casino industry has faced challenges in recent years. Competition from online gambling and changing consumer habits have put pressure on brick-and-mortar casinos. Maverick's closures are a sign of those pressures. But it's not all doom and gloom. Some casinos are thriving by adapting. They're offering more than just gambling—entertainment, dining, and events. Those that evolve may survive. ### What's Next? Maverick hasn't announced specific plans for the properties. They could be sold, repurposed, or left vacant. The company will continue to operate its remaining casinos. For now, the focus is on the workers. Local officials and unions may step in to help with job placement and support services. It's a difficult time, but communities often rally together in times of need. ### Final Thoughts The closure of eight casinos is a significant blow to Washington's gambling industry. It's a reminder that even established businesses can face hard times. For the workers, it's a personal crisis. For the state, it's an economic challenge. How it all plays out remains to be seen.