The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has approved a proposed revision to state gaming regulations that would remove references to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), replacing them with Nevada-specific problem gambling resources. The change, discussed during a regulatory workshop this week, follows recent controversy surrounding the NCPG’s partnership with prediction market platform Kalshi.
Background to the Proposed Change
The revision targets Regulation 5.170(2), updating the helpline number and assistance information to direct individuals to a Nevada nonprofit organization instead of the NCPG. This move comes after the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling ended its affiliation with the NCPG in response to the latter’s collaboration with Kalshi. The NCPG-Kalshi partnership, which began in May with a $2 million investment, led to the creation of a Financial Trader Health and Safety Initiative and made Kalshi the NCPG’s first Platinum-level member.
Industry and Regulatory Reaction
The NGCB’s Chief of the Tax & License Division, Cahn Lengsavath, explained that the update aims to provide more relevant local resources for those seeking help in Nevada. NGCB Chair Mike Dreitzer supported the change, saying that Nevada-specific responsible gaming resources would better align with the state's needs and regulatory framework. The NCPG has stated that it remains neutral on the legal status of gambling and prediction markets, emphasizing its focus on harm mitigation.
The Kalshi partnership prompted several state regulators and advocacy groups—including those from Michigan, Ohio, and Washington—to withdraw their NCPG memberships. The NCPG’s executive director, Heather Maurer, resigned in September amid the ongoing controversy.
Additional Regulatory Proposals
The NGCB workshop also addressed other proposed changes, such as removing the annual limit of two privately sold slot machines under Regulation 14.330(1). Lengsavath noted that the agency has not encountered issues with private slot sales and will continue to approve all requests. Dreitzer indicated a willingness to set a higher annual cap if necessary, but no specific figure was proposed.
All proposed changes, including the update to problem gambling resources, will be considered by the Nevada Gaming Commission on 22 October.
Why This Matters for Stakeholders
For operators and affiliates, the shift to Nevada-specific problem gambling resources could affect the way responsible gaming messaging is delivered and monitored. The regulatory changes may also influence compliance procedures, particularly for those involved in private slot machine sales. The developments highlight the importance of aligning responsible gaming initiatives with state-level standards and responding to industry controversies that can impact regulatory partnerships.
Key takeaways
- Nevada proposes removing NCPG references from gaming regulations.
- Change follows controversy over NCPG’s partnership with Kalshi.
- Other regulatory updates include slot machine sales and licence surrender rules.
- Proposals will be reviewed by the Nevada Gaming Commission in October.