Nevada casinos have received a further easing of capacity restrictions that were imposed to combat the COVID-19 health crisis, with Governor Steve Sisolak this week outlining the latest stage in the Silver State’s ‘Road to Recovery’ roadmap.

From yesterday (Monday 15 March) casinos, alongside a range of other hospitality establishments, were permitted to operate at a 50 per cent capacity limit or 250 individuals, whichever is less.

This latest moves follows the implementation of a month-long capacity limit of 100 individuals or 35 per cent of fire code capacity in February, and comes almost a year to the date that establishments across the region were first issued mandated closure orders.

Furthermore, the state is also striving to streamline the process for submission and approval of large gatherings, which it hopes will be another step toward re-igniting the meetings and events industry.

The announcement comes on the heels of the governor expanding vaccine eligibility to hospitality and food service workers earlier in the week.

“Las Vegas has been the top convention and meetings destination for many years. We pride ourselves on providing the best facilities, the best service and now, the safest,” said Governor Sisolak. 

“We’ve been cautious, but very focused on reopening Las Vegas in the safest way possible for you, our treasured customers, our valued employees and our entire community. With great confidence in the efforts made by our resorts, convention centers and meeting hosts, I say… Welcome Back! The greatest place to do business in the world is even better.”

Should a venue want to host more than 250 individuals, a new directive requires meetings, trade show and entertainment facilities to complete and submit a ‘Large Gathering COVID-19 Preparedness & Safety Plan Certification Form’.

This is to certify that, through the state’s department of business and industry, they will follow the health and safety requirements and protocols as well as adhere to the prevention principles that have remained consistent: maintain safe social distancing, wear face coverings and practice good hygiene and cleaning measures.

“We’re ready and eager to welcome back business travellers to Las Vegas,” added Steve Hill, LVCVA president and CEO. “We know there’s pent up demand for the return of in-person meetings and conventions and for the Las Vegas experience.”

The first citywide convention scheduled in Las Vegas is expected to be World of Concrete, June 8-10, inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, which will serve as the debut show inside the Convention Center’s new $989m West Hall.