Tips Tax Relief Could Inject $200M into Las Vegas Economy, Red Rock Estimates

Tips Tax Relief Could Inject $200M into Las Vegas Economy, Red Rock Estimates

By Michael Harrison

November 20, 2024 at 02:51 AM

Red Rock Resorts executives estimate that eliminating taxes on tips could inject up to $200 million annually into the Las Vegas economy. This policy, initially proposed during the 2024 presidential campaign, gained bipartisan support and may have contributed to the Republican victory in Nevada.

Red Rock Casino exterior view Nevada

Red Rock Casino exterior view Nevada

Lorenzo Fertitta, Red Rock Vice Chairman, shared this economic projection during the company's third-quarter earnings call, suggesting their business would benefit from this increased local spending power. The Culinary Union, representing hospitality workers, has endorsed the tax-free tips initiative.

While implementation challenges exist, including potential federal revenue loss and complexities with low-income tax brackets, the policy could significantly benefit Las Vegas casino operators, particularly those serving local markets like Red Rock Resorts, Boyd Gaming, and Golden Entertainment.

Additional benefits for casino operators could include reduced payroll expenses. Red Rock's CFO Stephen Cootey estimates their company could save $2-3 million annually in payroll costs if the policy is enacted.

Red Rock President Scott Kreeger affirmed the potential positive impact on their business, particularly given their strong connection to the local Las Vegas market, where many customers work in hospitality roles at other properties.

The policy's implementation could create a ripple effect throughout the Las Vegas economy, extending beyond gaming to benefit various sectors of the local business community.

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