Nevada Gaming Control Board approves $2.2M funding for 8 investigation division positions

Nevada's Gaming Control Board is set to enhance its regulatory capabilities following a recent joint meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance and the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. The committees approved a significant budget allocation aimed at addressing a growing backlog in gaming license investigations and ensuring compliance among restricted gaming licensees.

The Governor's recommendation includes $2.2 million in transfers from the gaming investigative fund for eight new positions within the investigations division. This move is expected to expedite the processing of approximately 200 non-restricted gaming license applications received annually, which the current staffing levels can only manage at a rate of 10 to 15 per month. The additional personnel will help the division meet industry demands and maintain operational efficiency.

In a related effort, the committees also approved $1.6 million in general funds for six new positions in the tax and license division. This team will focus on compliance reviews for over 2,000 restricted gaming licensees, such as small family-owned establishments. The initiative aims to build relationships with these licensees, providing necessary support and identifying compliance issues early.

Further budget discussions included the approval of $404,855 for two positions in the Administration Division to enhance public communication and fiscal management. Additionally, the enforcement division will receive $1.1 million to cover operational costs and transition funding sources for existing positions from federal forfeiture funds to general funds.

The Gaming Commission also received attention, with a recommendation for an Administrative Assistant position to help manage administrative tasks and improve efficiency. This position is crucial as the Commission has faced delays in archiving regulatory documents due to a lack of support.

Overall, these budgetary decisions reflect a proactive approach by Nevada's legislature to strengthen the state's gaming regulatory framework, ensuring both compliance and operational effectiveness in a rapidly evolving industry. The approved measures are expected to foster a more robust gaming environment, ultimately benefiting the state's economy and public trust in the gaming sector.