Talk to almost anyone who works in these casinos and they'll tell you all about the worries of being laid off.

When the state's largest industry, tourism, starts to tank, that's when you get the worst unemployment rate in 23 years.

"We have to be very realistic about what's happening in the economy," Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at MGM Mirage, Alan Feldman, says.

What's happening is waiters and waitresses, bartenders, housekeepers and more are losing jobs at some of the top casinos in the city.

"Its horrible nothing worse I can imagine than looking a colleague in the eyes...someone who's done nothing wrong," Feldman says.

Feldman confirms layoffs have been happening at MGM Mirage properties for weeks and its not stopping anytime soon.

"Most of the time there are other ways but there are occasional layoffs," he says.

Each department in each hotel and casino is deciding where there will be cuts based on need.

For example, if tourists aren't using as many hotel rooms at the Luxor, cuts will be made in housekeeping at the Luxor.

Some of those not losing their job are losing hours or forced to switch schedules.

"When people are a victim of circumstances beyond your control its incredibly tough," Feldman says.

Leaving thousands in the tourism industry wondering is this the bottom or cant still get worse.

Feldman says part of the problem is fear.

When people look at the Stock Market and their portfolios they are thinking twice about traveling and spending cash, creating a domino effect.

Keep it tuned to Channel 13 Action News.