Dreitzer named next Nevada Gaming Control Board chairman

On April 21, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo officially appointed Mike Dreitzer as the new chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), succeeding Kirk Hendrick, who is stepping down after serving in the role since 2023.

Kirk Hendrick, who initially intended to resign earlier this year, agreed to remain until the conclusion of Nevada’s legislative session, which ends on June 2. His final day will be June 22, marking the end of his tenure leading the state’s primary regulatory body for gaming.

As Dreitzer prepares to assume the chairmanship, he steps into the public eye as the most high-profile gaming regulator in Nevada. The state uniquely possesses two regulatory entities: the NGCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission. While the Commission oversees the board, the NGCB chairman is responsible for the day-to-day operations, making this role pivotal in the governance of Nevada’s gaming landscape.

Dreitzer will serve out Hendrick’s remaining term, which expires in January 2027, with the possibility of reappointment for an additional full term.

“As we transition leadership, I want to extend my gratitude to Chairman Hendrick for his dedicated service to our state,” Governor Lombardo stated. “Under his guidance, the NGCB has made significant strides in modernizing gaming regulations and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.”

Dreitzer, who previously held the position of CEO at Gaming Arts, expressed his enthusiasm for continuing the board’s critical mission, emphasizing the commitment to delivering top-tier regulatory standards for the state’s gaming ecosystem.

Facing Regulatory Challenges Head-On

Hendrick’s tenure has been marked by significant initiatives aimed at reforming the state’s regulatory framework. Upon taking office, he was tasked by Governor Lombardo with a comprehensive review to streamline outdated regulations. This process culminated in the removal of 16 regulations, reflecting a proactive approach to regulatory modernity.

Moreover, Hendrick spearheaded workshops focused on cashless payment systems, culminating in the groundbreaking 2024 amendment that permits patrons to utilize wagering accounts for non-gaming purchases at licensed establishments—a transformative step towards enhancing player experience and operational efficiency.

As Dreitzer steps into this significant regulatory role, he faces a tumultuous environment. The Las Vegas casino landscape has been embroiled in a series of scandals, notably involving money laundering and illegal bookmaking activities that have captured federal scrutiny. Under Hendrick’s leadership, the NGCB imposed substantial fines of $10.5 million on Resorts World Las Vegas and $8.5 million on MGM Resorts, addressing their involvement in these illicit operations. The NGCB is slated to review the MGM fine during its meeting on April 24.

This scrutiny has not only affected the reputation of the involved entities but has also spotlighted the regulatory environment itself. The challenges faced by the NGCB have included an employment discrimination lawsuit filed last September, highlighting internal tensions. Additionally, operators and suppliers have expressed frustration over slow processes and conservative approvals in the regulatory landscape, although Hendrick made commendable efforts to instigate positive changes during his tenure.

High Turnover at the Top

The NGCB has experienced notable turnover in leadership, creating instability at a critical juncture for Nevada’s gaming industry. Dreitzer becomes the fifth chair since January 2019; his predecessors include Sandra Douglass Morgan, Brin Gibson, and Brittnie Watkins, who briefly served as interim chair before Hendrick’s appointment.

Dreitzer brings a wealth of experience in both commercial gaming and state governance to his new role. Prior to his position at Gaming Arts, he held executive roles at prominent firms such as Ainsworth and BMM Testlabs. Additionally, his foundational experience as a deputy attorney general from 1996 to 1999 equips him with valuable insights into the intersection of law, governance, and the gaming industry.

“I am confident that transitioning to Chairman Mike Dreitzer will be seamless,” Hendrick noted in a statement. “Having known Mike for nearly 30 years since our time at the attorney general’s office, I believe he is the ideal choice for Governor Lombardo. His extensive career in gaming law, regulatory compliance, and business positions him well to guide the NGCB into the future.”