California’s Pechanga Indian casino announces plans to lay off about 400 workers

Temecula, California (AP) — The Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula plans to lay off about 400 of its 4,700 workers, blaming tough economic times.

The casino, the second-largest private employer in Riverside County, draws customers from across Southern California. Economist John Husing says people spend less on entertainment during an economic downturn, and the region has been hit hard by the housing slump and overall economic downturn.

Amy Minniear, president of Pechanga Development Corp., on Tuesday called the layoffs „the most difficult decision“ they have had to make since beginning operations.

Indian-owned casinos typically don’t report financial results. But several Las Vegas gaming corporations reported revenues are down as much as 22 percent over three years ago.