Employment Department to aid with Desert Inn layoffs

The Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation's Rapid Response team has been dispatched to assist the Desert Inn Resort and Casino and its employees facing layoff as the Las Vegas landmark makes plans to close its doors on Aug. 30.

Myla Florence, department director, said the Rapid Response team is working closely with the Desert Inn's Human Resources staff to offer onsite re-employment assistance to ease the transition for affected workers.

"When mass layoffs happen, our team steps in to provide a fast-track of re-employment assistance and Unemployment Insurance services for workers. Our work begins the minute we hear of a closure or layoff. We received the Desert Inn's notification on June 26," Florence said.

There are an estimated 1,500 wage earners at the Desert Inn who are facing this situation. Before the Desert Inn closes its doors, the Rapid Response team will provide no-fee career transition and placement assistance and self-directed mechanisms to help workers find their way through the employment system - to quickly find new employment.

For more information about Rapid Response, Unemployment Insurance or employment opportunities, visit any Nevada's Job Link office or visit www.DETRjoblink.org.