Nevada is making its first serious strides towards merging its prominent gaming and cannabis industries, sparking discussions among policymakers and industry leaders about how these two major sectors can legally coexist. A recent panel hosted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) brought this conversation to the forefront, as reported by Kolo.
While there is growing interest in this integration, significant federal barriers remain. Cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law, and federal banking laws prohibit cannabis transactions. These obstacles currently prevent any legal integration within Nevada’s heavily regulated casinos.
Despite these challenges, Riana Durrett of the UNLV Cannabis Policy Institute, which organized the panel, acknowledges the potential. “We’re pretty far off from seeing a consumption lounge or dispensary in a casino, but that’s why I think it’s an interesting conversation,” she said. Meanwhile, chair Tick Segerblom, a prominent figure in Nevada politics, recognizes the forward-thinking approach of some resort owners. “They can see the synergy, especially with food and entertainment,” he noted.
As attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, Nevada has already begun to soften its stance on some cannabis-related activities. The state’s 2024 legalization of cannabis lounges marks a significant step forward, opening a new avenue for discussions on how gaming and cannabis can coexist. Durrett believes the most immediate opportunities might not involve casinos directly, but could include easing regulations on cannabis deliveries to non-gaming establishments along the Las Vegas Strip.
“I think the ones that are most subject to further discussion are ones like the prohibition on legal delivery to the Strip corridor,” she explained. While the path towards full integration is still long, the conversations in Nevada offer a glimpse into the future of these two industries and their potential to converge and create new opportunities.
