RAPID CITY, S.D. – Professional hockey players in Rapid City and across North America have a new labor roadmap following the ratification of a five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players Association.

The agreement, which was announced Tuesday, runs through June 30, 2030. It follows a tentative deal reached earlier this month that averted potential labor instability for the league’s 29 teams, including the Rapid City Rush.

For the Rapid City Rush, the agreement ensures that operations at The Monument ice arena will continue without interruption, including tonight’s game versus Tahoe. The Rush, like other ECHL member clubs, must adhere to the new salary cap and roster regulations outlined in the document starting with the next league cycle.

According to league officials, the new CBA addresses several key areas of player interest, including increases in the weekly salary floor and improvements to the league’s benefit packages. The deal also includes adjustments to housing allowances and travel per diem rates, reflecting the rising cost of living in various ECHL markets.

ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin stated that the long-term nature of the deal provides a stable foundation for the league to continue its growth. The ratification process involved a league-wide vote by the players, who are represented by the PHPA as their collective bargaining agent.

PHPA Executive Director Larry Landon noted that the negotiations focused on enhancing the professional environment for players while maintaining the economic viability of the teams. The previous agreement was set to expire at the conclusion of the current season.