GCB to oversee casino enforcement of masks
The Nevada Gaming Commission may be asked to discipline gaming licensees that fail to require customers to comply with Gov. Steve Sisolak’s new order mandating facial coverings in public areas.
“We will continue to explore those instances where behaviors have merited some form of disciplinary action,” Gaming Control Board Member Terry Johnson told commissioners Thursday. “Where warranted, the board will take (action) and that may involve the Gaming Commission at some point, should matters proceed to hearings, or in worst-case scenarios — which I do not anticipate
— where there is willful refusal to comply with the governor’s directives.”
Sisolak on Wednesday announced that facial coverings will be required in all public areas, including casinos, beginning Friday.
The Control Board is currently overseeing compliance to health and safety guidelines for nonrestricted licensees — the largest hotel-casinos — and restricted licensees at bars, restaurants, convenience stores and supermarkets that have 15 slot machines or fewer.
He said the board has yet to decide on “appropriate disciplinary action” for noncompliance and is considering suspending gaming licenses “or other activities.”
“We do expect cooperation and we’ll commit the resources necessary to assist the gaming licensees maintain compliance,” he said.
The commission also is empowered to fine noncomplying companies.
Johnson didn’t say how many additional Control Board employees are in the field assisting with enforcement but said checks are occurring around the clock.
“It’s a 24/7 operation. They’re out there day in, day out, working with the licensees, bringing items to their attention for correction, and we’ll continue to do that work.”
Contact Richard N. Velotta at rvelotta@reviewjournal.com or 702-477-3893. Follow @Rickvelotta on Twitter.