Indiana has been experiencing a $175 million loss in gaming tax revenue. Since the start of the pandemic, the casinos have been witnessing major loss in March, April, May and June. So, it has now become a moment of curiosity for the casinos to get some ideas about the reopening date.
The officially announced state-mandated closure of casino industry in Northwest Indiana shall continue till mid-June. This is the announcement by the Indiana Gaming Commission.
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Depth of the announcement
Though the officials have declared these dates till now, yet it’s good to remember that dates are vulnerable to change. In regards to the peak hours of the pandemic, the officials state that there shall be no determined reopening dates.
According to them, it is expected that the things will come back to “normal” by July 4. With it, comes the condition that there is a decrease in new COVID-19 cases.
The present crisis period is such that there are approximately 5,000 casino employees in Hammond, East Chicago, Gary and Michigan City, who are no longer receiving a paycheck.
Overall scenario
The Governor is setting a tentative schedule for reopening of Indiana’s economy. At the same time, the mayors of NWI casino city are always monitoring spending as the shutdowns due to COVID-19 continue. The revenue generation system of the Northwest Indiana casino has gone down to a great extent.
The IGC has mentioned reopening of the five casinos, and eight state-regulated gaming properties during this time. This will be marked across Indiana. Again, the “Back on Track” plan by Eric Holcomb is scheduled for June 14.
Four Winds Casino, South Bend, is not subject to the regulations by state gaming board. But, it will remain closed “until further notice”.
The tribal casinos in Idaho, as well as Washington, will reopen this week. Again, the tribal casino in the upper peninsula of Michigan will probably reopen next Saturday.
Casino operators in Las Vegas have announced that they will reopen after a shutdown. But, its good to remember that the guests will be getting only free parking. There will be a limit set to the valet service.
MGM Resorts has made an announcement to open just two of the total 10 Strip properties. The starting points are Bellagio and New York-New York.
Caesars Entertainment has planned to open Caesars Palace along with the Flamingo Las Vegas. Later on, they will open Harrah’s Las Vegas and LINQ hotel-casino.
The Illinois Gaming Board has announced the official shut of all casinos as well as licensed video gaming for several months. Presently, the Gaming Board is continuously working to see the developments regarding COVID-19.
Post pandemic scenario in the casinos
Sisolak’s office is now working to set plans for holding a news conference on to discuss details about the next phase again, the regulators in Nevada also plan to meet Tuesday.
Only after seeing the green light and a ray of hope, the marquees and the managers will reopen the casinos for the excitement of gambling. Besides, it will become mandatory to wash hands and follow the other norms.
Moreover, people will have to maintain social distancing. New state Gaming Control Board also will keep disinfecting the surfaces according to the norms of federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Final word:
The tourists who will again go to Las Vegas will witness major changes post the pandemic. But, gambling lovers can rest assured about enjoying in the same way.
