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Maverick Gaming to Close Eight More Washington Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide

By jili tutorial · October 2, 2026

Maverick Gaming to Close Eight More Washington Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide

Overview of the Closures

Maverick Gaming has announced plans to shutter eight additional casino locations across Washington State in November, placing approximately 850 jobs at risk. The move is part of the company’s ongoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, which have already led to several earlier closures. While the operator has stated that these shutdowns may not be permanent, the immediate impact on employees and local communities is significant.

The affected properties include:

All closures are scheduled to take effect on November 30. Maverick Washington LLC has formally filed Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notices with the Washington Employment Security Department, as required under state and federal law.

Impact on Employment and Local Communities

The 850 positions at risk represent a substantial workforce loss, particularly in smaller cities where these casinos often serve as major employers. The ripple effects extend beyond the casinos themselves—local suppliers, vendors, and nearby businesses that rely on casino traffic may also face economic strain. For example, the closure of Crazy Moose Casino in Pasco could reduce foot traffic to adjacent restaurants and retail stores, while the loss of tax revenue may affect municipal budgets.

Maverick has noted that some sites could remain open or see their shutdown dates altered if new operators take over during the bankruptcy process. This leaves employees and local governments in a state of uncertainty, with no guarantee of job retention or business continuity.

Understanding WARN Notices

WARN notices are a legal requirement under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. Employers with 100 or more workers must provide 60 days’ advance notice of mass layoffs or plant closures. Maverick’s filing with the Washington Employment Security Department is a standard step in such proceedings, but it does not automatically mean the closures are irreversible. The notices serve as a formal warning to allow employees time to seek new jobs or retraining, and they also trigger state-level response resources.

Previous Closures and Cumulative Job Losses

Before the November round, Maverick had already announced the closure of two other locations effective November 1:

Together with the latest eight closures, more than 1,200 jobs in Washington could be cut or placed at risk through 2026. This figure includes both confirmed layoffs and positions that may be saved through bankruptcy-related sales. The high concentration of closures in a single state raises questions about Maverick’s long-term viability in Washington, even as it continues to operate properties in Nevada and Colorado.

Maverick’s Financial Decline and Bankruptcy

Maverick Gaming filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in July 2025 in a Texas court. The company reported assets and liabilities ranging between $100 million and $500 million. Chapter 11 allows a business to reorganize its debts while continuing operations, but the process often involves downsizing or selling assets to improve financial health.

The bankruptcy followed a period of financial instability. In June 2025, S&P Global Ratings withdrew its credit ratings on Maverick, citing insufficient information to maintain the ratings. This withdrawal signaled growing uncertainty among creditors and investors. A month later, the company sought court protection.

Key financial factors contributing to the decline include:

Rapid Expansion and Acquisition History

Maverick’s current troubles stand in stark contrast to its rapid growth in recent years. The company expanded quickly across Washington, Nevada, and Colorado by acquiring regional casino and cardroom operators. A notable purchase occurred in 2022, when Maverick acquired Evergreen Gaming Corporation for $80.5 million. This deal added several Washington properties to its portfolio, including many of the now-threatened locations.

The acquisition strategy was fueled by investment capital, including significant involvement from HG Vora Capital Management, a New York-based hedge fund. Reports have suggested that HG Vora’s financing helped shape Maverick’s growth trajectory, but the exact extent of its influence on financial decisions remains unclear. The firm’s role is now being scrutinized as bankruptcy proceedings unfold.

The Role of HG Vora Capital Management

HG Vora’s relationship with Maverick has drawn attention from industry analysts. The investment firm provided capital that enabled the rapid acquisitions, but such high-leverage strategies often leave companies vulnerable during economic downturns. While HG Vora has not commented publicly on Maverick’s bankruptcy, its involvement is likely to be examined in court as part of the reorganization plan. Creditors may argue that investment decisions prioritized expansion over prudent financial management.

Future Prospects: Ownership Changes and Possibilities

Maverick has stated that the November closures “may not be permanent.” This qualification is common in Chapter 11 cases, where the court may approve the sale of individual properties to new owners. If a buyer steps in for a specific casino—such as the Lakewood trio or the Yakima location—that site could reopen under new management, potentially preserving jobs.

However, the bankruptcy process also allows for liquidation if no viable buyers emerge. The outcome will depend on court approvals, creditor negotiations, and market interest. Maverick continues to operate remaining Washington properties, along with its Nevada and Colorado holdings, but additional closures could further shrink its footprint.

For employees and local communities, the next few months are critical. State workforce agencies are likely to offer transition assistance, and some workers may find opportunities with other operators—including tribal casinos, which dominate Washington’s gambling market. The final chapter of Maverick’s story in Washington is still being written, but the current wave of closures marks a significant turning point.