Penn National Gaming will temporarily suspend casino operations in Indiana

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Penn National Gaming, Inc. announced today that pursuant to an order from the Indiana Gaming Commission (“IGC”), it will temporarily suspend operations at Hollywood Casino - Lawrenceburg and Ameristar East Chicago for a period of two weeks beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure against the ongoing spread of COVID-19. The IGC will remain in consultation with the state’s licensed casinos, public health authorities and government officials to determine safe protocols for when operations may resume.

“The health and well-being of our guests and team members will always be our paramount concern,” said Jay Snowden, President and CEO of Penn National Gaming. “Since the coronavirus threat began we have implemented stringent CDC-recommended protocols throughout our enterprise, including increased daily cleaning regimens at our facilities, maximizing air circulation, cancelling or postponing all concerts and live events, and we’re in the process of temporarily closing down buffets, among other initiatives.

“As for our nearly 2,000 team members at Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg and Ameristar East Chicago who will be impacted by this temporary closure, we plan to continue to pay their wages and benefits for the two-week period. This is a challenging time for all of us, and we are very appreciative of the overwhelming support and understanding from our guests and team members. We look forward to reopening our doors just as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will be taking the opportunity to continue our deep cleaning efforts and preparing our casino to welcome our loyal customers back,” concluded Mr. Snowden