As Las Vegas faces one of the most severe economic downturns in its history, casino operators are preparing for a potential comeback—with new safety protocols in place. One of the leading voices in this movement is Wynn Resorts, which has released a 23-page proposal outlining how it plans to safely reopen its properties, including poker rooms, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Clean Game: Safety Comes First in Poker Rooms
Wynn’s plan, led by CEO Matt Maddox, includes an extensive set of health and hygiene protocols specifically tailored to poker operations:
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♣️ Sanitizing chairs after each player departs
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♠️ Hourly cleaning of automatic shufflers
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♦️ Regular chip sanitation, a major shift from typical practices
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♥️ Sanitation of table rails, seats, and toke boxes after each use
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🧼 Enhanced dealer procedures, including the end of “tap-in” changes
To reduce contact and maintain distancing, only every other table will be in play, and maximum player seating limits will be enforced.
High-Tech Health Measures
The plan goes beyond poker. Wynn’s reopening proposal includes:
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📹 Thermal camera temperature screening at all entrances
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🚨 Private re-screening for guests showing over 100.0°F
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❌ Immediate removal of guests confirmed with fever symptoms
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📏 Social distancing reminders throughout the property
The Debate Continues
While Maddox has called on Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak to consider a phased reopening of the Strip, the state’s official stance remains cautious. Sisolak has extended the closure of all nonessential businesses, including casinos, through at least April 30—a deadline that may be extended.
Meanwhile, other operators, such as South Point, are already preparing for the long haul. Reports suggest significant layoffs may begin as soon as May 3, indicating that many casinos don’t expect doors to open anytime soon.
The stakes are high in Las Vegas, both economically and from a public health standpoint. Wynn Resorts’ comprehensive reopening plan shows that the industry is thinking several moves ahead—but whether the cards will hit the felt again soon remains to be seen.
