Nevada gaming regulators are addressing the shortage of armed security officers in Las Vegas casinos following changes in federal regulations that disrupted the background check process. The Nevada Gaming Control Board took steps on Wednesday to resolve the issue, with a resolution expected next month.

Since last spring, Las Vegas casinos have faced a shortage of armed security guards due to a change in federal rules that prevented gaming regulators from accessing a federal database for conducting background checks on security personnel. As a result, hiring new armed officers or renewing licenses for existing ones had become a challenge. To alleviate the situation, the Board has recommended regulatory changes that will make it easier for casinos to hire and retain qualified armed security personnel, according to CDC Gaming Reports.

Temporary Solution for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

The proposed solution allows applicants for a concealed carry permit (CCW) to undergo criminal background checks through their county sheriff’s department rather than through the Gaming Control Board. Under the new rules, armed security personnel can register for a CCW for 120 days while awaiting the results of their background check. If any issues arise during that time, the registration can be revoked.

Additionally, active-duty and retired law enforcement officers in good standing will be able to obtain security licenses without going through the full background check process.

The new regulatory framework comes in the wake of a violent incident last month at Red Rock Resort, where a man stabbed two employees before being shot by an armed security guard. The man is now facing charges of attempted murder and battery with a deadly weapon. The incident highlighted the importance of armed security personnel in preventing violent crimes at casinos.

Virginia Valentine, president of the Nevada Resort Association, expressed gratitude to the Board for addressing the issue and working toward a solution. “This allows the resorts to maintain staffing levels for new hires and renewing registrations,” Valentine said. “The security of our team members and guests is of paramount importance. We had a recent example where an armed security guard made a big difference at a resort.”

Board Chair Kirk Hendrick also emphasized the significance of resolving the problem, stating that the shortage of qualified armed security was a critical issue for Nevada’s employees, residents, and visitors. “We understand other agencies can’t have just anybody looking through non-public records for employment purposes,” Hendrick said. “Still, we need to hire and retain well-qualified people to be armed security.”

Enhanced Background Checks Through Sheriff’s Departments

Kristi Torgerson, chief of the Board’s enforcement division, explained that the new process allows sheriff’s departments to submit verifiable receipts to the Board, confirming that an application for a CCW permit has been filed. This new system enhances the screening process, allowing for more comprehensive background checks that assess mental health records and international activities, areas that the Gaming Control Board previously lacked the resources to address.

“Now we’re back to doing a full background,” Torgerson said. “A more comprehensive background check is being done by the sheriff’s office. We’re looking at mental-health issues and people out of the country. They’re doing more in-depth checks because they have those resources and the authority to do so.”

Long-Term Impact on Armed Security in Casinos

The change in regulations will particularly benefit new hires in the security sector. Armed security officers nearing the expiration of their five-year licenses will still be required to renew their CCW permits, but the new system allows for smoother onboarding of new staff members. Torgerson noted that this expedited process is critical to ensuring that casinos maintain armed security personnel to assist local law enforcement and uphold public safety.

Ray Steiber, executive director of special operations and corporate security at MGM Resorts International, underscored the importance of safety in the gaming industry, particularly for the company’s 50,000 employees in Southern Nevada. “Safety is critically important for the 50,000 southern Nevada-based team members who work at our resorts, as well as the millions of tourists our industry welcomes every year,” Steiber said, praising the new regulations.