Gaming Control Board Chair Hendrick to preside over final gathering in June
In Nevada, the outgoing Chair of the Gaming Control Board, Kirk Hendrick, is set to hold his last meeting with the Commission on June 11, ahead of his departure from the position next month. During the meeting last week, Hendrick briefed the Commission on the Board's scheduled activities for June, including a potential disciplinary matter involving horse racing.
In April, a Utah trainer was fined $5,000 and had his license revoked by the Commission, following his horse testing positive for cocaine after a race at the Elko County Fairgrounds last summer. The Commission will convene again on June 26 to address this matter.
Mike Dreitzer, who has served as CEO of Gaming Arts, has been appointed by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo to replace Hendrick as Chair of the Gaming Control Board, starting from June 23, 2025. Dreitzer brings an extensive background in gaming law, government, regulatory compliance, and business to his new role. Hendrick has commended Dreitzer's appointment, noting their long-standing professional relationship.
Hendrick expressed optimism about the upcoming lengthy meeting of the Board, commenting that it indicates a high volume of applicants and sensible processing of applications. He expressed gratitude towards the Commission and acknowledges his privilege to have served the state during his tenure, which began in January 2023.
Commission Chair Jennifer Togliatti praised Hendrick for his exceptional service, highlighting his intelligence, diligence, and remarkable team. Commissioner Abbi Silver lauded Hendrick's leadership and extensive institutional knowledge, while Commissioner George Markantonis expressed anticipation for Hendrick's next adventure. Commission Rosa Solis-Rainey expressed pride in Hendrick's accomplishments and shared sentiments of serving alongside him.
The Governor's appointment of Dreitzer follows an ongoing investigation into Fontainebleau Las Vegas for alleged anti-money laundering (AML) violations, as well as a $5.5 million AML fine imposed on Wynn Resorts Las Vegas by the Gaming Control Board as part of a non-prosecution agreement with federal authorities. These issues underscore the active regulatory role of the Board in Nevada's gaming industry.
Specific dates for the Board's meetings following Hendrick's departure have not been disclosed, but regular regulatory oversight and approval processes will continue. The recent licensing and suitability unanimous approval for various executives and companies, such as the acquisition of Gaming Arts by Merkur.com AG and Gauselmann Familienstiftung, demonstrates the Board's ongoing role in the gaming industry.
The upcoming meetings of the Gaming Control Board, following Kirk Hendrick's departure, may potentially delve into discussions about casino-and-gambling matters, similar to the case of the ongoing investigation into Fontainebleau Las Vegas' alleged anti-money laundering (AML) violations.
Mike Dreitzer, with his extensive background in gaming law, will probably preside over such discussions once he takes over as the new Chair of the Gaming Control Board.
