Gambling in the USA
NGCB: 2021-41 Transition to Local Control for COVID-19 Mitigation Protocols
Section 18 of Emergency Directive 044 delegates all authority to prescribe COVID-19 mitigation measures for the gaming floor of Nevada gaming licensees to the Nevada Gaming Control Board (Board). Authority to limit occupancy and to establish social distancing restrictions for other parts of a casino property, including, without limitation, restaurants, retail establishments, resort lounge areas, and other common areas is delegated to local governments under Emergency Directive 044, Section 18, paragraph 2 pursuant to an endorsed COVID-19 Local Mitigation and Enforcement Plan (Local Plan), required by Emergency Directive 044, Section 2.
The Board expects each licensee to fully comply the applicable county’s Local Plan, and issues the following clarifying instructions:
STATEWIDE MASK MANDATE
Effective May 3, 2021, Governor Sisolak updated the statewide mask mandate with the issuance of Emergency Directive 045. The Board expects each licensee to fully comply with the provisions of Emergency Directive 045. This is a statewide requirement that cannot be relaxed by a county’s Local Plan.
SENATE BILL NO. 4, 32ND SPECIAL SESSION
Each public accommodation facility, as defined in NRS 447.320, is subject to all requirements imposed by NRS 447.300 to 447.355, inclusive, and the related regulations adopted by the Director of the Department of Health and Human Services. Specifically, NRS 447.345(1) requires each public accommodation facility to establish, implement and maintain a written SARS-CoV-2 response plan. Nothing in this Industry Notice or Industry Notice #2021-37 relieves a licensee that is a public accommodation facility of that obligation.
RESTRICTED LICENSEES
Effective May 1, 2021, the Board rescinded its “Health and Safety Policy for Reopening after COVID-19: Restricted Licensees.†Each restricted licensee shall comply with its respective county’s COVID-19 Local Mitigation and Enforcement Plan (Local Plan).
NONRESTRICTED LICENSEES
Except as otherwise provided below and subject to NRS 447.300 to 447.355, inclusive, effective May 1, 2021, each nonrestricted licensee shall comply with its respective county’s general capacity and occupancy limitations and social distancing requirements, as detailed in the county’s Local Plan, within the licensee’s gaming areas. These county-specific requirements are detailed below.
Capacity Limitations for Gaming Areas (based on each county’s published Local Plan, updated 5/4/21)
Carson City:
Occupancy Limit:100%
Social Distancing Measures: 6 feet
Churchill County:
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Clark County
Occupancy Limit: 80% (Increase to 100% once 60% of eligible population receives first vaccine dose) Social Distancing Measures: 3 feet (Removed once 60% of eligible population receive first vaccine dose)
Douglas County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing: None
Elko County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Esmeralda County
Occupancy Limit: 50% of Fire Code capacity
Social Distancing: None
Eureka County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Humboldt County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Lander County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Lincoln County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Lyon County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing: 6 feet or physical barriers between individuals
Mineral County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing: None
Nye County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Pershing County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing: None
Storey County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing: None
White Pine County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: None
Washoe County
Occupancy Limit: 100%
Social Distancing Measures: 6 feet
Additional COVID-19 Mitigation Measures
Effective May 1, 2021, the Board will enforce the Health and Safety Policy for Continued Mitigation of the Spread of COVID-19 for nonrestricted licensees.
Formal Requests to Increase Occupancy above Local Plan Requirement
As outlined in the April 2, 2021 Joint Statement of the Nevada Gaming Control Board and Nevada Gaming Commission on COVID-19 Vaccination of Hospitality Workers (Industry Notice #2021-26), licensees may submit a request to the Chair of the Board for a waiver of applicable occupancy limitations or COVID-19 mitigation measures otherwise applicable on May 1, 2021. Such a request must demonstrate the licensee’s measurable and material steps to vaccinate its workforce.
The deadline to submit such a request was April 27, 2021; however, requests may still be submitted to [email protected] at this time. There is no requirement that the Board approve or otherwise respond to such a request in a specific timeframe. Absent an approval of this type of request by the Chair of the Board, a licensee must comply with the occupancy limits stated above. Following the lead of other licensees, rather than complying with this notice, will be deemed a violation of Regulation 5.011.
CONCLUSION
The contents, requirements, and restrictions set forth in this Industry Notice are subject to change based on a county amending its Local Plan. Each licensee is expected to continuously reference its county’s Local Plan to ensure compliance with the same.
In conjunction with state and local health officials, the Board will continue to ensure that best practices are used in the mitigation of COVID-19, and its effect on licensee operations, and will issue further notices as appropriate.
The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.â€
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.â€
Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,†said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,†said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
Gambling in the USA
BMM INNOVATION GROUP SHOWCASES ITS SUPPORT FOR TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY AT INDIAN GAMING CONFERENCE & EXPO MARCH 31 – APRIL 3 AT SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER
Company to sponsor, attend, and speak at the San Diego, California show.
BMM Innovation Group (“BMM,†“BIG Group,†or “BIGâ€), a technology conglomerate focused on product compliance testing, cybersecurity solutions, and virtual training for the global gaming industry, today announced its sponsorship and participation in the Indian Gaming Association’s (“IGAâ€) annual IGA Conference & Expo, March 31-April 3 at the San Diego Convention Center.
With over three decades of experience supporting Tribal gaming, BIG will be on-site as sponsors, speakers, and attendees to reinforce the Company’s steadfast commitment to Tribal sovereignty and self-regulation.
Proud Partners in Tribal Progress
The BIG Group’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Martin Storm said, “BMM proudly partners with Tribal governments, Tribal casinos, and Tribal gaming equipment and technology suppliers to advance Tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and economic development. We are honored to continue supporting the growth and integrity of Tribal gaming through our trusted product compliance services, world-class training and virtual education, and our cybersecurity solutions to protect Tribal enterprises.â€
BMM’s long-standing relationships with Tribal gaming suppliers and regulators are at the heart of its mission. As active members of IGA and other key Tribal organizations, BIG is committed to elevating Tribal voices and ensuring Tribal interests remain at the forefront of industry growth.
BIG Group Shares Thought Leadership on Conference Panels and Trainings
- In addition to sponsoring and attending, the BIG Group’s expert thought leaders will speak and provide in-person training at the conference:
- Tuesday, April 1 at 9 am: Innovation vs. Regulation: Keep Pace with Emerging Gaming Technologies – Sean Mason, Senior Director of Tribal Services
- Tuesday, April 1 at 4 pm: Gaming and Cyber Risk Best Practices – Mitigate Risk and Sleep Better at Night – Heather Lee, Senior Director of Sales for BIG Cyber
- Wednesday, April 2 at 9 am: Level III Commissioner Certification Training – Peter Nikiper, Director of Technical Compliance
Unmatched Expertise in Product Compliance and Certification
As a trusted testing laboratory for Tribal gaming jurisdictions across North America, BMM’s focus is fairness, integrity, and security in every gaming environment. IGA attendees are invited to connect with BMM experts to learn more about the Company’s comprehensive product compliance programs.
Education & Training for Long-Term Success
BIG continues to empower Tribal gaming employees through exclusive education and training programs, including free access to RG24seven Virtual Training. These knowledge-sharing initiatives are designed to support responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, and the long-term sustainability of Tribal gaming operations.
Cybersecurity Solutions Tailored for Tribal Gaming
The BIG Group is focused on bolstering cybersecurity defenses for Tribal enterprises through its BIG Cyber services, which includes penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, PCI:DSS evaluations, and a host of managed security services featuring CYREBRO’s Security Operations Center, KnowBe4’s security awareness training, and Maxxsure’s risk management platform.
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