With the announcement that Harry Reid will retire after his current term ends in 2016, many are left wondering what this means for the future of gaming in Nevada. From his beginnings as chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission to his years in the Senate, Reid has shown nothing short of support, vision, and respect for the gaming industry.
In fact, the industry would not be what it is today if it were not for Reid. As Senator, Reid was able to bring in millions of dollars to McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, ensuring they could accommodate the 40 million-plus people who visit each year.
When Reid first burst onto the scene in the 1970s, gambling was legal in only Nevada and New Jersey, which was in its infancy. Currently, roughly 1,000 casinos are spread out over nearly 40 states and much can be attributed to Reid, who constantly pushed for gaming throughout the country.
Most recently, Reid came to the spotlight in the gaming industry when it was reported he helped expedite the visa process of investors in the SLS Las Vegas. The EB-5 program grants green cards to foreign nationals as long as they invest over $500,000 in a project’s development which is set to create or save at least 10 full-time jobs. Reid helped with just that, and was named in a report by the Department of Homeland Security inspector general.
“Listen, the homeland security report came from a bunch of whiners at the Department of Homeland Security,” Reid said. Maybe he still has some spunk left after all.
