Published on: June 8, 2026, 01:36h.
Updated on: June 8, 2026, 01:36h.
- Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill advocates for better benefits for Nevada from casinos
- Hill, aiming to become the next governor of Nevada, proposes an increase in casino revenue taxes
Running against Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo (R) in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race, Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill has made a controversial campaign promise that may not endear her to supporters within the state’s prominent casino industry.
Among six Democrats vying for the governorship, Hill finds herself trailing significantly behind the likely Democratic nominee, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, who aims to challenge Lombardo in November.
Making headlines recently, Hill has proposed raising taxes on an industry that plays a pivotal role in Nevada’s economy, aiming for an annual budget increase of approximately $4 billion through corporate tax reform.
Her plan includes an increase in the state tax on casinos and gaming establishments, currently set at 6.75%.
Focus on the Casino Gaming Sector
Nevada’s gaming policies are often characterized as the “gold standard,” attracting many states to emulate them, although numerous have opted for significantly higher taxation on gross gaming revenue (GGR).
Casinos in Nevada generating at least $134,000 in a month are subject to the 6.75% tax, while those with lower earnings face reduced tax rates.
Hill believes it’s time for the gaming sector to contribute more.
“Gaming needs to step up to the negotiating table. While it requires effort, other industries have done so. As the state faces financial pressures from essential services, industries like mining have stepped forward to collaborate,” Hill stated in an interview with NBC 3 News in Las Vegas.
If the casino sector is uncooperative regarding a higher tax rate, Hill has indicated she may pursue legislative measures to enforce it.
“Polling shows that the public expects fair taxation for gaming,” Hill noted.
The Washoe County Commissioner has expressed confidence in her campaign’s alignment with public interests over those of the gaming industry, which might financially back opposition if she secures the Democratic nomination.
The Casino Sector’s Economic Significance
The casino industry is crucial to Nevada’s economic landscape.
In 2025, Nevada’s gaming revenue reached a staggering $15.8 billion, a record figure. Additionally, casinos attract millions of tourists annually, who spend on travel, lodging, dining, entertainment, and shopping.
The economic impact of gaming in the state totals around $100 billion annually, with direct employment in casinos comprising nearly 150,000 jobs.