The Nevada Gaming Control Board voted Dec. 11 to recommend changes to Nevada Gaming Commission Regulation 3.01 that clarify how the board and commission assess whether a proposed casino is suitable near churches, schools or playgrounds.

Senior Deputy Attorney General John McKellar told the board the draft (dated Nov. 10, 2025) adds definitions — including "church," "school," "playground" and "immediate vicinity" — and gives applicants two ways to carry the statutory burden of showing suitability: a written statement addressing relevant factors or a determination from the local governing body. "A local governing body has a strong understanding of whether gaming is appropriate at a proposed location," McKellar said.

Board members questioned scope. Chair Dreitzer asked whether the draft "childcare facility" definition should capture brief drop‑in programs such as KidsQuest or only established day‑care facilities. McKellar said his initial drafting intended to include "all approved child‑care facilities" but offered narrowing options. Member Sandahl sought tighter parameters for the "playground" definition to avoid importing very small or unofficial play areas into the restricted‑location analysis.

After discussion the board moved and amended a recommendation to the commission and delegated authority to the chair to finalize the childcare‑facility wording before the commission consideration. Member Sandahl made the motion; the vote was recorded as Member Assad — Aye; Member Sandahl — Aye; Chair Dreitzer — Aye.

No members of the public spoke on the item. The board asked staff to return any refined language on playground and childcare definitions for the record before the draft proceeds to the Commission.

The board's action is a recommendation to the Nevada Gaming Commission; the commission must still consider and adopt any regulation changes to make them effective.