Nevada has lost $2.1 billion in state and local revenues from the hospitality industry after seven weeks of COVID-19 restrictions, according to analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The state leads the nation in the workforce percentage employed in hospitality, with nearly 450,000 jobs — or one in three — tied to tourism, according to the Nevada Resort Association.
The severe drop in travel and tourism has caused excessive revenue losses, totaling $6.3 billion in state guest spending in the last seven weeks alone.
"The resort industry’s priority remains the health and safety of our employees, guests and fellow residents, and our members look forward to reopening when the Gaming Control Board determines it is safe to do so,” said Virginia Valentine, president of the Nevada Resort Association in an email.
“Our members understand it is critical to take a measured approach that ensures the reopening of Nevada’s tourism industry is done strategically and correctly for the long-term health of our industry and its reputation,” said Valentine. “We appreciate the governor’s leadership and the Nevada Gaming Control Board's work in safeguarding Nevadans and our visitors.”
Gov. Steve Sisolak announced on May 7 a phase one reopening, which includes businesses such as restaurants which may open at 50% occupancy. However, bars and gaming establishments were not in phase one, according to Fox5Vegas. Sisolak said the Gaming Control Board will decide when it’s safe to reopen casinos.
Valentine said members of the Nevada Resort Association have focused primarily on safety and health protocols to ensure CDC guidelines and other health districts' mandates are being met.
"As Nevada’s largest industry moves closer to reopening, our members have been meticulously refining their already robust health and safety plans and protocols and adjusting their operations in accordance to the latest guidance from the CDC, the Southern Nevada and Washoe County Health Districts, leading public health experts and the Gaming Control Board,” said Valentine. “Our members look forward welcoming back employees and guests to a secure environment in the near future."
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