Battle lines are being drawn between opposing sides of issues surrounding intrastate remote gaming -- gambling using high-tech devices that allow gamblers to wager without being on a casino floor.
The most contentious issues so far: whether problem gambling would increase with the introduction of the new devices, and whether operators of large resort properties would lose business to smaller operators with restricted licenses that offer technology allowing players to place bets remotely.
Remote gaming technology encompasses several types of devices. They include cellular telephones and data transmitting devices; kiosks that are stations for taking sports wagers in locations that don't generate much traffic, such as rural properties; and hand-held devices that would enable wagering away from the casinos floor -- a resort bar, swimming pool or hotel room, for example.
They also include personal computers and using the Internet to place wagers -- which is illegal in the United States.
The Nevada Gaming Commission and the state Gaming Control Board met Friday to solicit comments on several aspects of remote gaming.
Commissioners will conduct a similar information-gathering session in Carson City on June 17, then go to work drafting policies, regulations and legislation to be submitted in time for the next legislative session.
Las Vegas Sun
The most contentious issues so far: whether problem gambling would increase with the introduction of the new devices, and whether operators of large resort properties would lose business to smaller operators with restricted licenses that offer technology allowing players to place bets remotely.
Remote gaming technology encompasses several types of devices. They include cellular telephones and data transmitting devices; kiosks that are stations for taking sports wagers in locations that don't generate much traffic, such as rural properties; and hand-held devices that would enable wagering away from the casinos floor -- a resort bar, swimming pool or hotel room, for example.
They also include personal computers and using the Internet to place wagers -- which is illegal in the United States.
The Nevada Gaming Commission and the state Gaming Control Board met Friday to solicit comments on several aspects of remote gaming.
Commissioners will conduct a similar information-gathering session in Carson City on June 17, then go to work drafting policies, regulations and legislation to be submitted in time for the next legislative session.
Las Vegas Sun
