Summary:
- The county sheriff’s department will conduct background checks on security applicants.
- Applicants must register for CCW for 120 days.
- Active-duty and retired law enforcement can obtain licensing without the extra processes.
Las Vegas casinos have seen a shortage of armed security officers due to existing rules and regulations for the hiring process. The shortage started after gaming regulators were told by the FBI that they could not use a federal database to conduct background checks on armed officers who were being hired or up for renewal.
Last year, the Nevada Gaming Control Board recommended that the state Gaming Commission approve changes to regulations to create an easier hiring process. It seems the changes are finally about to start, and casinos will soon have access to more security options in a quicker manner.
Dealing with the Shortage
The new changes would allow anyone applying for a concealed carry permit to undergo a background check via the sheriff’s office. Armed security personnel would need to register for the CCW for 120 days while the background check is taking place. If the registration does not come in within 120 days, it can be denied or revoked.
Any active duty or retired officer who is in good standing would have the opportunity to obtain licensing without completing the above process. The meeting this week to approve the change comes just one month after a man at Red Rock Resort stabbed two employees. It took time for security to approach and apprehend the man.
Approving the Change
Officials of Nevada casinos and associated organizations are happy to see the change in regulations. The Board took action yesterday during its meeting, and the new rules should be enacted in October. Board Chair Kirk Hendrick stated it was an important issue for the industry, as well as the state’s employees and citizens.
Gaming officials did not create the problem, but they did have the power to change it. Hendrick pointed out that the Board understands other agencies cannot have anyone looking through records for employment needs.
However, casinos still need to hire qualified people to protect gaming venues. The solution will allow faster hiring times, so casinos will always have armed personnel on-site to protect visitors and employees from criminal activity.
The new procedure will also allow for in-depth checks, ensuring that everyone hired is experienced and taking the screening process to a higher level. Metro Police will complete a warrant check in all 50 states for potential new hires. As part of the process changes, any armed security officers with a five-year license that is about to expire can seek a new CCW permit.
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