Casino closures begin in U.S.

Multiple casinos across the U.S. have announced they are temporarily closing due to the coronavirus, with properties in Massachusetts, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Pennsylvania all shuttering their operations.

MGM Resorts International has said it will close its MGM Springfield, Empire City Casino and MGM Northfield properties, while Wynn Resorts is closing Encore Boston Harbour for two weeks, all beginning Sunday March 15.

Wynn says the company will pay all full-time employees during this period as it evaluates the impact of the temporary closure. A limited number of employees and management will remain at the resort to secure, sanitize and maintain the facility, it said.

The resorts are also closing all bars, restaurants and hotel facilities.  

"In coordination with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, MGM Springfield will temporarily close for the wellbeing of everyone in the community," said MGM Chief Operating Officer and President Bill Hornbuckle. "We sincerely regret the impact this will have on our employees, their families, and the community, but their health and safety is our number one concern."

According to local media reports, MGM has warned of layoffs and staff furloughs that will begin in the coming week. Hornbuckle sent a letter to employees on Friday, USA Today reports.

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