Nevada Considers Poker in Private Gaming Salons

The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) recently convened for a public workshop to discuss potential updates to the state’s gaming salon regulations, which have remained largely unchanged for over two decades. Among the topics under consideration were the inclusion of private poker games in high-limit salons—a change that could reshape Nevada’s high-stakes gaming landscape.

On December 5, representatives from major Las Vegas casino operators, including Wynn Resorts, MGM Resorts, and Hard Rock International, presented ideas aimed at modernizing the state’s gaming regulations. Ellen Whittemore, executive vice president and general counsel at Wynn Resorts, proposed several reforms, with the potential to open private gaming salons to a wider range of players, including celebrities and tech millionaires. The key proposal, however, was the introduction of poker into private salons—a move that could set the stage for broader changes in Nevada’s gaming laws.

“We’re looking at creating an environment that allows for more flexibility, more guests, and a more diversified customer base”

 

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Under current regulations, poker is not classified as a “table game” and therefore is not permitted in Nevada’s private gaming salons, which are typically reserved for high-stakes blackjack and baccarat. This regulatory gap leaves open the possibility for change, and it was a point of discussion during the workshop. NGCB member Judge George Assad (ret.) expressed support for revising the regulations, stating that there are no current rules explicitly prohibiting poker in private salons.

However, a shift in policy would require a thorough examination of both the legal and tax implications, as poker is typically classified as a “card game” in Nevada, which is subject to different tax rates than table games. Additionally, high-stakes poker games often run longer than the current six-hour limit for private gaming salons, necessitating further adjustments.

The Current Market Dynamic

Charlie Stone, executive vice president of casino operations and marketing at Wynn, highlighted a growing demand for high-limit poker, particularly among affluent players. Wynn is keen to tap into this market, aiming to offer exclusive private poker games in their salons. The shift could not only attract high-rollers but also boost ancillary revenue from dining, entertainment, and retail.

While poker may not generate as much direct revenue as other casino games, high-stakes poker players are known to spend generously on the wider resort experience. With casinos in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe already attracting wealthier clientele, the addition of private poker rooms could further solidify Nevada’s appeal as a top destination for luxury gaming.

Nevada’s gaming regulations currently lag behind those of other prominent gambling destinations, including New Jersey, Monaco, and Macau. Judge Assad pointed out that these locations already offer private salons for poker, attracting high-net-worth individuals seeking a secure and private gambling environment. “Players can go to New Jersey, Monte Carlo, Macau, and Dubai and find a private salon to satisfy their desire to gamble in privacy and security,” Assad noted.

The three casino operators present at the workshop—Wynn, MGM Resorts, and Hard Rock—are well-positioned to capitalize on any regulatory changes. Wynn currently operates 19 private gaming salons across its two Las Vegas properties, while MGM Resorts boasts 31 salons at four of its iconic resorts: Aria, Bellagio, The Cosmopolitan, and MGM Grand.

Hard Rock Las Vegas, which is in the process of rebuilding the Mirage property, plans to include at least one private gaming salon in its new Guitar Hotel tower, expected to open in 2027. With private gaming spaces already a feature at other high-end casinos like The Venetian and Resorts World, it’s likely that these properties could also be contenders for hosting private poker games if regulations are updated.

The Future of Poker Salons

As the NGCB continues to consider these regulatory changes, the potential for private poker games to become a staple in Nevada’s gaming salons is growing. While no immediate decisions have been made, the proposals discussed during the December workshop could pave the way for significant reforms. If enacted, the changes could not only enhance the state’s appeal to high-stakes players but also help Nevada maintain its competitive edge in the global gaming market.

The next steps will involve further regulatory review, with potential changes expected as early as next year. For now, Nevada’s gaming operators and players alike are closely watching how these discussions unfold.