The question has floated around for a long time, but never seriously, until now: Regulators are discussing the possibility of lowering Nevada’s minimum gambling age from 21 to 18 in order to increase gaming revenues.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board and Nevada Gaming Commission neither support nor oppose the suggestion, though Gaming Control Board Chairman Dennis Neilander did tell an audience of industry lawyers at a recent conference that he would propose the idea to state Senator Steven Horsford, the Democratic majority leader, and Assembly Speaker Barbara Buckley. Both Horsford and Buckley said they do not support the idea, with Buckley adding that is isn’t a priority for the next term.

Thomas Smock, a lawyer for Aristocrat Technologies Inc., suggested the possibility of lowering the minimum gambling age this go-round, though he told the Las Vegas Sun he made the suggestion as a private citizen, not as a gaming representative. Smock noted that 18-year-olds can vote and serve in the military, and even gamble at certain Californian tribal casinos.

“I personally feel that this is a way that additional revenue could be generated, and if that means keeping our teachers employed and not cutting the state budget any further, I think it should at least be discussed,” Smock told the newspaper.

Nevada’s current minimum gambling age is enshrined in state law, and so must be amended by legislation and then signed off on by the governor in order to lower the age to 18.

By Casino Connection Staff