Nevada gaming and betting has officially been placed into temporary shutdown with Governor Steve Sisolak ordering the state’s casinos, bars and restaurants to close for 30 days. The measure was made clear in a stark communication from the Nevada Gaming Control Board which said it would be enforcing temporary suspension of licensee operations.

As a consequence, all gaming devices, machines, tables, games, and any equipment related to gaming activity were shut down with effect from 11:59pm on March 17. The restriction remains in effect for 30 days from the time and date it became effective, subject to further notice. 

To assist licensees in complying with the industry notice, the Board has issued a policy memorandum for casino closures, changeovers, and temporary closures. In conjunction with the Office of the Governor and local and state health officials, the Board said it will continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19, and will issue further notices as appropriate.

Underlining the rationale behind the enforced closures, Sisolak said in a statement: “My ultimate goal here is to come to gather as Nevadans to save lives. That requires aggressive strategies aimed at mitigating community spread [of the coronavirus]. 

“Medical professionals have made it abundantly clear that there is no treatment. While a vaccine is being developed, we don’t have time to waste. At this time, we must act aggressively and decisively to protect ourselves, our families and our community.”

One of the latest companies to confirm closures was Caesars Entertainment Corporation with the announcement that it will temporarily shut down its owned properties in North America, consistent with directives from various government bodies.

“It has become clear that we must take this extreme action to help contain the virus and protect the safety and well-being of our team members and guests,” said CEO Tony Rodio.

The firm said it is working to ensure a smooth closing process throughout its network and looks forward to welcoming back team members and guests as soon as appropriate. 

“Caesars recognizes the disruption that these property closures will have on team members and is committed to helping employees manage the impact,” it stated. “Caesars has a strong liquidity position with more than $2.8bn of cash-on-hand. While the company believes its current cash position is more than sufficient to fund its obligations, it is also taking appropriate measures to reduce operating and capital expenses, as necessary.”