As Nevada’s cannabis market continues to grow, state gaming authorities are exploring changes to an 11-year-old policy that prohibits casinos from associating with marijuana businesses. During a recent discussion at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, former Gaming Control Board member Terry Johnson suggested it may be time to reassess a 2014 memorandum that advised casinos against partnerships with cannabis companies. Johnson questioned the relevance of the memo in today’s context, stating, ‘Does this even matter now?’
Since Nevada legalized recreational cannabis in 2016, the number of dispensaries has surged to nearly 100 across the state, including several on the Las Vegas Strip. However, only two cannabis consumption lounges currently operate in Las Vegas, which limits the opportunities for tourists to engage with the cannabis market. The ongoing federal classification of cannabis as a Schedule 1 controlled substance complicates matters for casinos, as they risk federal scrutiny if they collaborate with marijuana operators.
Johnson noted the lack of significant problems related to cannabis in the gaming sector during his tenure as a regulator, saying, ‘We didn’t have the types of disruptions or negative publicity or any adverse events related to cannabis and gaming.’ He believes this could indicate a need to re-evaluate current regulations.
Panelist Andrew Schorr, a cannabis business executive, highlighted the economic advantages of collaboration between the gaming and cannabis industries. He stated, ‘If the gaming industry were able to collaborate with the cannabis industry, I think it would look like an entirely different world.’ Schorr suggested that if legal barriers were removed, some casinos could partner with cannabis businesses to create new experiences for visitors.
In the broader context of Las Vegas tourism, other developments are also shaping the landscape. The Ellis Island Hotel and Casino has reached a resolution with Formula One and will now be part of the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Derek Stevens has confirmed that his anticipated new casino project remains years away from fruition, and Wynn Resorts has opted out of the New York City casino competition, citing better opportunities in other markets.
As discussions continue, the future of cannabis and gaming in Nevada could undergo significant changes, reflecting the evolving landscape of both industries.
English 
Spanish 
German 
Czech