Recently, Becky Harris was appointed as the next Chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (GCB) by Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. She has made history by being the first woman to act as chair and only the second woman to serve on the board.
This appointment holds more significance than most due to Nevada’s reliance on gambling. Both the state and the Nevada gaming sector will be eager to see that the newly appointed individual is reliable and competent.
Harris is expected to avoid any actions that may jeopardize tax or business revenues, while concurrently needing to safeguard Nevada citizens. She also needs to proactively address technological, political, and cultural shifts affecting the industry.
When announcing the appointment, Sandoval stated:
The regulatory structure for gaming in Nevada is globally recognized as the best, necessitating that those who serve on this commission as public servants must be unquestionably ethical and prepared to make challenging decisions.
Harris faces some difficult decisions?
Sandoval is assured that Harris will not only make the tough choices but will also make wise decisions on the challenging issues.
Becky has made significant contributions to her community through her role as an elected official. She played a key role in passing legislation that officially recognized the e-gaming decision made by the Gaming Policy Committee. This decision paved the way for e-gaming competitions, spurred innovation in the gaming industry, and ensured that Nevada remains at the cutting edge of new opportunities within this long-standing industry. I have full confidence in her continuing to serve with both distinction and integrity.
Harris undoubtedly possesses the appropriate qualifications. The position requires political acumen, understanding of gambling law and regulation, and a favorable attitude towards the industry.
Similar to A.G. Burnett, her predecessor who stepped down last month, Harris is also a lawyer. She obtained her Juris Doctor degree from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University. In addition, she currently serves as the State Senator for District 9 in Clark County.
Harris, presently a Republican, was a Democrat until 2004. Her Senate seat is predicted to be heavily contested in the upcoming election. However, having experience from both sides of the political aisle will likely aid her in navigating any potential challenges.
Harris has a strong background in gambling regulation
Much to the relief of the industry, Harris developed a keen interest in gambling at the outset of her political career. In 2016, she joined the first-ever LL.M. in Gaming Law and Regulation program at the William S. Boyd School of Law, University of Nevada.
She currently serves as the Treasurer for the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS), where she actively participates in state gambling regulation.
The NCGLS plays a specific role in advocating for top-notch regulation practices. Essentially, their draft template for gambling rules serves as a preliminary stance on standardized gambling regulations throughout the US.
Nevada currently has interstate compacts with Delaware and New Jersey. Therefore, Harris’ regulatory experience at NCLGS will be beneficial as this compact expands.
The fact of the matter is that in certain regulatory areas, Nevada lags behind other countries. This is evident in areas such as the regulation and use of cryptocurrencies and virtual currencies, as well as the regulation of a wider variety of games, including esports and virtual sports.
NGCB has begun tackling some of these concerns. However, the rapid advancements in technology lead to new initiatives that may require regulatory intervention. It’s also crucial to note that inaction can sometimes be as harmful to the gambling industry as excessive zealousness.
Switching from politics to gambling regulation may be a step up
Harris is unequivocally aware of the significance of her role. She must relinquish her Senate seat to assume this job. Upon accepting the role, she recognized the enormity of the task ahead of her:
Being chosen to serve in the world’s best regulatory system carries a significant responsibility. I appreciate the faith and confidence Governor Sandoval has expressed in me. I pledge to serve with resolve and honor. Although I will miss working in the Nevada State Senate and serving the constituents of District 9, I assure that my public service to the Nevada citizens will continue in this new full-time capacity.
Harris, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, more commonly referred to as Mormons, holds a unique position as a critical figure in the Nevada gambling industry, which may be considered unusual.
The church is strongly opposed to gambling. Yet, in this regard, the stance of the Mormons isn’t significantly different from most of the major religions. For example, when Massachusetts planned to broaden gambling in 2011, the four leading Catholic bishops in the region publicly criticized the proposed legislation.
Republican Senate Leader Michael Roberson, despite facing the challenge of finding a replacement political candidate, believes Harris is the ideal woman for the job.
There couldn’t be a more suitable person for the Gaming Control Board appointment than Becky, especially considering her unmatched resume. Her historic role as the first female chairwoman is absolutely fitting. I am thrilled for her and I am confident that she will excel in this position.
