Compliance Updates
NGCB: Addendum 4 to April 21, 2020 Policy Memorandum
Procedures for Reopening after Temporary Closure Due to COVID-19 (Addendum 4)
On May 29, 2020, the Nevada Gaming Control Board issued Addendum 1 to the April 21, 2020 Procedures for Reopening after Temporary Closure Due to COVID-19 Policy Memorandum. Within that addendum, temporary MICS and ICP variations were granted related to count rooms, slot payouts, and kiosks. Additionally, on January 19, 2021, Addendum 3 to the April 21, 2020 Policy Memorandum granted a temporary waiver of the bankroll formula, established pursuant to NGC Regulation 6.150. These MICS/ICP variations and the Regulation 6.150 waiver, which were issued to address occupancy limit and social distancing requirements, are rescinded effective June 1, 2021.
Any questions regarding Policy Memorandum may be directed to the Audit Division or the Tax and License Division, as applicable.
Best regards,
Brittnie T. Watkins, Esq., Ph.D.
Board Member
Compliance Updates
Minnesota Senate Committee Advances Sports Betting Bill
The Senate Tax Committee advanced legislation authored by Senator Matt Klein (DFL – Mendota Heights) to legalize Sports Betting in Minnesota. This was the second time the bill has been heard in Taxes, after making a stop last year. The hearing focused on changes to tax rates and revenue disbursements.
Senator Aric Putnam (DFL – St. Cloud) offered an amendment that made several major tax and revenue related changes, which were adopted by voice vote. The tax rate was changed to 20% on net revenues from sports betting. Revenues as a result of that change would then be dispersed to:
(1) 20% for tax relief for charitable gaming organizations,
(2) 10% for treatment and awareness programs for problem wagering,
(3) 15% for Explore Minnesota Tourism for large sporting events,
(4) 5% to the Minnesota Racing Commission for racetracks,
(5) 5% for the Minnesota State High School League for youth sports and activities,
(6) and the remainder to the general fund.
Senator Klein said: “The changes made in Senate Taxes Committee today have made this a better bill for Minnesotans. I am thankful for the committee’s thoughtful consideration of this legislation and willingness to work toward the best balance of needs and interests.
“As a result of this work, we are now able to support our allied charities who engage in gaming so they can continue the good work they do for our state. We are also able invest in the state high school league’s ability to foster participation in a wider array of activities, attract more large sporting events to Minnesota, and continue to focus efforts on problem wagering awareness.”
SF1949 passed the Senate Taxes Committee as amended and was referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
Arizona
Arizona Department of Gaming Announces Allocation for Event Wagering License
The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) announced today that it has allocated an event wagering operator license to Fanatics Betting and Gaming as the designee for Tonto Apache Sports Betting, an organization of the Tonto Apache Tribe, pursuant to A.R.S. § 5-1304 and A.A.C. R19-4-105 and 106.
On January 16, 2024, ADG announced that it would begin accepting applications for available event wagering licenses, which included one event wagering license reserved for Arizona Tribes and no less than one event wagering license reserved for Arizona Sports Franchises, as defined in A.R.S. § 5-1301(7).
The application window for event wagering licenses opened on February 16, 2024, and closed on March 4, 2024. Applicants were required to submit their completed applications within this timeframe in order to have been considered for an event wagering license.
California
California Gambling Control Commission: A Glimpse into the Upcoming Decisions on Cardroom Licensing
The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) is set to hold a pivotal meeting on March 21, 2024, where key decisions regarding the future of several cardrooms within the state are on the agenda. This meeting underscores the Commission’s role in overseeing the state’s gambling establishments, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a fair and transparent gaming environment. Here’s what stakeholders can expect:
Capitol Casino’s Licensing Future
Capitol Casino, a renowned name in the gambling sector, is up for the renewal of its cardroom owner type license. The Commission is presented with two options: to approve the renewal applications through March 31, 2026, or grant a 90-day extension through June 30, 2024. Commission staff recommend the latter, suggesting a cautious approach towards the renewal process.
Spotlight on Lucky Chances Casino
Lucky Chances Casino faces a critical juncture with its license renewal application. The Commission contemplates referring the applications to an evidentiary hearing, proposing an interim renewal license through September 30, 2025. This decision comes with stringent conditions aimed at preventing Rene Medina, a figure associated with the casino, from patronizing certain areas of the property, among other regulatory stipulations.
Oceana Cardroom’s Path Forward
LEB Holdings’ Oceana Cardroom is recommended for license renewal through March 31, 2026, with specific conditions regarding operational compliance. Before opening for business, the cardroom is required to undergo an inspection by the Bureau of Gambling Control and fulfill various regulatory requirements, ensuring a safe and compliant gaming environment.
Decisions on Parkwest Bicycle Casino
Parkwest Bicycle Casino’s licensing outcome hangs in balance, with two options under consideration. The crux of the decision revolves around the permissibility of contractual relationships with Fortiss, LLC, and TPPPS providers. The staff recommendation leans towards option two, which includes applying for and maintaining a cardroom business license for Fortiss, LLC, should the administrative hearing find the current arrangements non-compliant.
Renewal Application for Rogelio’s
Rogelio’s Inc. seeks renewal through March 31, 2026, with conditions focusing on regulatory compliance before operations commence. This includes submitting a fully completed business entity supplemental information form and adhering to relocation, safety, security, and emergency plan requirements.
Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room
Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room face critical evaluations with recommended options leading towards evidentiary hearings or temporary licensing extensions. These decisions reflect the Commission’s commitment to upholding regulatory standards while ensuring fair consideration of each establishment’s circumstances.
This meeting is a testament to the dynamic nature of California’s gambling landscape, highlighting the Commission’s dedication to transparency, regulatory compliance, and the well-being of the gambling community. Stakeholders and the public await the outcomes, anticipating the impacts on the state’s gambling establishments and the broader gaming environment.
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