The Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) has announced new Gaming Technology Approval Guidelines to expedite the approval process for gaming technology, effective July 1, 2024. This policy update aims to facilitate quicker integration of innovative technologies into the gaming industry, enhancing Nevada’s reputation as a leader in gaming innovation. 

Background 

The move comes after Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo’s 2023 State of the State address, where he highlighted concerns over a “logjam” in the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s (NGCB) testing lab. Lombardo pointed out that new gaming products were being introduced more rapidly outside of Nevada, giving other casino states a competitive edge. He emphasized the need to work with the NGCB to clear this backlog and improve efficiency. In response to the governor’s remarks, Gaming Control Board Chairman Kirk Hendrick initiated efforts to address these issues. A public workshop was held later that year, aiming to modernize the technology division and streamline the approval process. The session, attended by gaming industry representatives and the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM), provided a platform for discussing potential improvements. 

New Policy Highlights 

The new policy outlines specific timelines and procedures for evaluating new gaming devices, associated equipment, and modifications to existing technology. Key highlights include: 

Faster Approval Timelines: 

• New gaming devices without field tests or inspections will be evaluated within 45 days; those requiring tests or inspections will be evaluated within 90 days. 

• Associated equipment will be evaluated within 20 days without tests or inspections, and within 60 days if tests or inspections are needed. 

• Modifications to gaming devices and associated equipment will be reviewed within 5 to 10 days, or 60 days if additional testing is required. 

  
  

Application Processing: 

• Applications will be reviewed for completeness within 5 business days. If no deficiencies are found, they are considered complete and move forward in the process. 

• Physical inspections or field tests, if required, will be communicated to the manufacturer within 5 days of application completion. 

  
  

Field Test Guidelines: 

• Field tests must commence within 90 days of authorization and will generally last 30 days. 

• Any deficiencies observed during the field test must be addressed within 30 days. 

  
  

Meet and Confer Sessions: 

• Manufacturers can request a meet and confer session to resolve disputes regarding unnecessary inspections or deficiencies within 10 days of raising an objection. 

• NGCB will render a decision, preferably during, and no later than the second day following the meet and confer session. 

  
  

Implementation and Future Steps 

This new approach is expected to significantly reduce the time required for new technologies to enter the gaming market, benefiting both developers and consumers.