The goal of the bill is to reduce the presence of illegal gambling in the state through tighter rules
Nevada is taking steps to crack down on illegal gambling operations with a new bill that just cleared the state Senate. Senate Bill 256, introduced by Sen. Rochelle Nguyen, was approved with a unanimous 20-0 vote, while one senator abstained. The bill is now headed to the Assembly for further review.
The proposal focuses on giving state regulators more authority to go after unlicensed gambling operators, including those based outside Nevada. If passed, the law would allow prosecution of any operator taking bets from residents of Nevada, even if the operation is hosted offshore or out of state. This approach is designed to limit the influence of the black market and keep illegal platforms from bypassing state regulations.
One of the bill’s key points is the potential upgrade of certain illegal gambling offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. Penalties could include up to 10 years in prison, along with the forfeiture of any money made through unlawful gaming. That money would go into Nevada’s general fund.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board, along with the Nevada Resort Association and the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers, have voiced support for the bill. Supporters argue that stronger enforcement is necessary to protect both legal gambling businesses and consumers, while also keeping the state from losing valuable tax dollars to unauthorized operators.
If SB 256 becomes law, it will expand the state’s ability to do more than just issue cease-and-desist letters. Regulators would be able to take more direct legal action. The bill’s momentum comes at a time when the NGCB is already dealing with disputes like the ongoing case against prediction market platform Kalshi, which is fighting back against claims that it’s offering sports betting under a different name.
The Assembly is now expected to take up the bill in committee.
