Nevada. For many around the world, the name immediately conjures of images of glitzy casinos and legal gambling. But what are the laws behind the Nevada's gaming industry? It all started in 1931 when Nevada legalized most forms of gambling. But it took a few decades to take root. After World War II, when enforcement of gambling laws became stricter in other parts of the country, Las Vegas became an attractive target for investment by East Coast crime figures. Las Vegas rapidly developed during the 1950s and soon became the center of gambling in the U.S.
As you might guess the State of Nevada profits handsomely from taxing and regulating all the gambling profits generated in Las Vegas and Reno. Nevada closely monitors all the companies and entities conducting gambling operations with its borders.
The Nevada Gaming Commission and State Gaming Control Board provide a listing of Nevada gaming laws and regulations. But as you'll see, the statutes are complex and full of legal jargon. For any legal needs you would be wise to consult a Nevada gaming attorney. The following table is a brief introduction to Nevada gambling laws:
| Code Section | 463.010 et seq. |
| Gambling | Dealing, operating, carrying on, or exposing for play any game, or operating inter-casino linked systems are legal. |
| Horse Racing/Off-Track Betting | Licensed horse racing legal; off-track betting legal when conducted at licensed gaming facilities. |
| Dog Racing/Off-Track Betting | Licensed dog racing legal. |
| Casinos Allowed? | Licensed casino gambling legal. |
| Other Kinds of Gambling-Related Activities Allowed or Banned | Charitable lotteries legal. Manipulation of gaming equipment; use of unapproved wagering instruments illegal. Private, social gambling allowed. |
Note: State laws are constantly changing -- again, contact a Nevada gaming attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Gaming Compliance Plans
If your company is a gaming company, you need a gaming compliance plan to ensure that your company operates within all gaming laws and regulations. To stay in business, you must stay in compliance and gaming laws and regulations are complex and ever changing. Gaming lawyers draft and help companies implement gaming compliance plans.
Nevada Gaming Commission The mission of the Nevada Gaming Commission is to control all gaming licensing matters and make rulings in work permit appeal cases. The Commission also creates regulations to implement and enforce Nevada’s state gaming laws, working in conjunction with the State Gaming Control Board.
Illegal Gambling Arrests
Bear in mind that if you are arrested for illegal gambling, a qualified Nevada criminal defense attorney.
Related Resources for Nevada Gambling Laws:
