In 2001, Nevada permitted private salons through state regulations, but the topic has largely been overlooked since then. Recently, discussions have resurfaced with the aim to help Nevada maintain its status as a leading gaming destination.
A workshop held on Thursday marked just the commencement of the revision process. At this stage, no new rules or changes have been formulated, and any future regulations will need approval from both the board and the Nevada Gaming Commission, potentially extending into the next year or beyond.
Currently, the rules for private salons are fairly stringent. Patrons interested in playing at a licensed salon must either deposit $300,000 upfront, secure a credit line of the same amount, or have a combination to meet this threshold. Slot machines within these salons must be set at a minimum of $500 per spin, and if the primary patron departs the salon, accompanying guests can only continue playing for six hours.
Numerous industry figures advocated for relaxing these conditions before the board.
### Whittemore on the Significance of Salons
Ellen Whittemore, Executive Vice President of Wynn Resorts, was among the first to address the board, describing salons as crucial in positioning Nevada as a top-tier gaming venue. As such, Wynn proposed four modifications to existing salon policies:
– Salons should be able to switch from private to public gaming, given clear signage is displayed.
– When private, poker should be permitted in salons.
– Reassessment of credit minimums and playtime restrictions when the primary player is absent.
– Operators should have the liberty to decide slot-bet minimums.
A lively conversation ensued about including poker, which Whittemore pointed out is technically classified as a “card game” and not a table game according to regulations. She argued there is no lawful ban on card games in private salons. Allowing poker could attract high-stakes players to Nevada, enhancing both gaming and tax revenues.
Charlie Stone, Executive Vice President of Casino Operations and Marketing for Wynn, echoed these views. “High rollers are particularly drawn to the exclusive atmosphere of a private gaming salon,” he commented. “Bringing more such games to Las Vegas and hosting them in these venues will greatly enrich clients’ experiences.”
Board member Brittnie Watkins indicated that reclassifying poker as a table game may be a significant move, suggesting that simply permitting it in salons might be a more straightforward solution.
### Reevaluating Financial Criteria
While Whittemore acknowledged that the current financial thresholds are “somewhat high,” she clarified they are manageable for Wynn’s clientele. Conversely, MGM Resorts seeks to eliminate them entirely. Chandler Pohl, MGM’s Vice President and Legal Counsel, requested that operators be entrusted with setting their own terms.
MGM also hoped to have poker approved and to introduce slot-only offerings, which are currently restricted. Pohl expressed no objections to existing slot-bet limits but underscored the necessity to grant valuable or celebrity patrons the opportunity to game privately without financial constraints.
“This discussion centers on catering effectively to our esteemed clients and ensuring privacy and security to avoid public disturbances on gaming floors,” he stated.
### The Push for Innovation by Lupo and Valentine
Joe Lupo, soon-to-be President of Hard Rock Las Vegas, and Virginia Valentine, CEO of the Nevada Resort Association—representing about 75 properties across the state—were the final speakers.
Lupo highlighted the need for Nevada to remain at the forefront in the gaming sector, applauding the submitted proposals. He shared insights from previous experiences in Florida and Atlantic City, noting that this discussion is fundamentally about service improvement.
Valentine urged the board to consider how these changes affect all licensees across the state, not merely in Las Vegas. She particularly cited northern markets, labeling the current financial stipulations as “restrictive.”
“A salon gamer’s profile can vary across different markets, seasons, and events,” she explained. “Adopting such innovative changes will ensure we stay ahead in the competitive landscape.”