Commission allows 15 gaming devices at two El Dorado travel centers after staff review

The Nevada Gaming Commission on June 26 approved restricted gaming licenses and waivers for two travel-center locations owned by DeSimone Gaming Inc., allowing each site to operate up to 15 slot machines. The sites were previously reviewed and approved by board staff and had operated with similar device counts under prior ownership.

Counsel and the operator explained that the locations are substantial travel centers and truck stops with staffed operations, internal controls and an existing relationship to a licensed, nonrestricted property (Railroad Pass). Presenters described security measures, employee staffing levels and business characteristics that distinguish the sites from ordinary convenience stores, which under Regulation 3.015 typically are limited to seven machines.

Commissioners asked about staffing levels and recruitment in the remote locations and about ongoing supervision. The operator said the restricted locations share employees with the adjacent nonrestricted Railroad Pass property and that staffing and pay are adjusted to meet operational needs. Presenters said operations had previously been conducted with 15 machines without incident and that the company remains subject to the boardapproved internal control requirements and oversight.

Outcome: A commissioner moved to approve restricted items 5 and 6 together as recommended by the Gaming Control Board. The motion carried by voice vote with no opposition. Conditions described on the agenda remain part of the approval, including standard internal-control and reporting requirements.