Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval wants gaming regulators, casino representatives and other experts to put their heads together to make sure the gaming industry stays on safe ground in its relations with the state’s fledgling recreational marijuana industry.
An existing advisory body known as the Nevada Gaming Policy Committee will begin later this year to examine a range of pot-related issues, including whether events catering to or promoting marijuana can be held on the premises of a casino hotel.
The problem is the sale and possession of the drug is still a criminal offense under federal law, so when Nevada legalized pot sales on July 1 it made sure to restrict lighting up to private residences and prohibit it in casinos, bars, restaurants, parks, concerts and on any federal property.
“Gaming regulators have been clear on the prohibition of marijuana consumption on licensed gaming properties, but there are additional policy considerations such as industry events and business relationships that should be contemplated,” Sandoval said in a statement.
Nevada Gaming Control Board Chairman A.G. Burnett said licensees have numerous concerns, including the ramifications, if any, should cash proceeds from marijuana and related transactions find their way to casinos.
As he put it in an interview with The Associated Press, “Any money that comes out of something illegal, when it is transferred to buy something, it’s considered money laundering. What if the patron gambles with that cash and the casino knows?”
The committee is also expected to address whether casinos can receive or provide financing to a person or business that sells, cultivates or distributes the drug.
Its recommendations are scheduled to be announced by the middle of next year.
