Nevada casinos can soon address the shortage of armed security officers as new rules regarding background checks are to come into place. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

A serious issue

Nevada’s gambling regulator is addressing the ongoing shortage of armed security guards at casinos in the state. The issue, which has been ongoing since spring 2023, was caused by the FBI stopping regulators from conducting background checks on prospective new hires or those approaching renewal of their five-year licenses through a federal database.

streamline the process of casinos hiring and keeping armed security

The Nevada Gaming Control Board revealed during its meeting on Wednesday that improvements should be possible next month due to a change in federal law. It advised the Nevada Gaming Commission to approve alterations in October to streamline the process of casinos hiring and keeping armed security.

Improving the process

After the change, a county sheriff’s department will now be able to run the criminal background check rather than the gaming regulator.

A 120-day period will be in place. During this time, security has permission to carry a firearm until the background checks are complete, with authorities able to revoke the permissions if the checks are unsatisfactory.

Applicants will be subject to a comprehensive fingerprint check during the 120-day period to ensure that nothing unsettling pops up with this more surface-level procedure.

Retired or current law enforcement officers with good records can now receive a license without going through the extensive background check steps.

Protecting people

Properties in Las Vegas welcomed this development amid ongoing concerns about violence around the city. The Nevada Resort Association said that the security of guests and employees “is of paramount importance” and pointed to an incident recently at the Red Rock Resort, which saw a man stab two workers before a security officer was able to shoot the attacker.

criminal records overseas and any mental health issues

Nevada Gaming Control Board Enforcement Division Chief Kristi Torgerson noted that the new system includes more comprehensive background checks, such as looking at people’s criminal records overseas and any mental health issues they might have – two factors not previously possible to assess.