Feb4
Growing Number of Casinos across the US Closes Due to Rapid Outbreak of Coronavirus
March 17, 2020 Aleksandra Zolotic
As a response to the ongoing expansion of the novel Coronavirus disease (Covid-19), an increasing number of casinos across the United States decided to halt operations. Some of them did so by law, while the others made the decision voluntarily.
Furthermore, the pandemic has also led to widespread cancellations in the world of sport, not only across the States but all over the globe. All of the major American professional sports leagues, as well as most renowned European association football leagues, have been suspended, and the 2020 NCAA basketball tournament has been canceled.
As for Canada, Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) has ordered all parlors in the province of Ontario to temporarily close. OLG said it would, “provide an update on when the casinos will re-open” in the future.
How does Each of the States React?
The Indiana Gaming Commission, Illinois Gaming Board, Michigan Gaming Control Board and Massachusetts Gaming Commission have both ordered all establishments in their states to stop operating for two weeks.
Meanwhile in Ohio…
…Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health director Amy Acton, as well as Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, have issued an Order banning all “mass gatherings” of more than 100 people.
As part of a ban on gatherings of more than 50 people Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York, Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, and Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey tly announced on a conference call that all facilities in their states would close from 8 pm ET. Moreover, two long-anticipated global gambling events in NJ were canceled as well.
Lamont commented:
“We must do everything we can as a community to slow the spread of this virus so that we don’t overwhelm our healthcare system and we protect the most vulnerable. Viruses do not know borders, which is why taking a regional approach on this issue is the best plan forward.”
Implementing Stringent Measures
Penn National Gaming’s president and chief executive, Jay Snowden, stated that although the venue had taken necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus, he understood the reason for the closure, pointing out that:
“This is a challenging time for all of us and we are very appreciative of the overwhelming and understanding from our guests and team . We look forward to reopening our doors just as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will be taking the opportunity to continue our deep cleaning efforts and preparing our casinos to welcome our loyal customers back.”
Though there have been no confirmed cases of Covid-19…
…at any Penn National casino, the company has implemented stringent CDC-recommended protocols throughout the entire enterprise, including increased daily cleaning regimens at the facilities, maximizing air circulation, canceling or postponing all concerts and live events, temporarily closing down buffets, among other initiatives.
MGM Makes Difficult Decisions
While Nevada has not yet banned mass gatherings, MGM Resorts International declared that it would temporarily suspend operations at its Las Vegas properties until further notice, starting March 17.
In addition to this…
…MGM also temporarily closed its Empire City property in New York City under an order from Mayor Bill De Blasio to end large gatherings, as well as its venues in Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Ohio.
In February, the corporation opted not to give earnings guidance for 2020 due to the effect of the outbreak on its business in Macau, where all establishments operations closed on 5 February. Moreover, MGM will not take reservations for hotel bookings before 1 May.
Outgoing MGM chief executive Jim Murren stated:
“Despite our commitment to dedicating additional resources for cleaning and promoting good health, while making difficult decisions to close certain aspects of our operations, it is now apparent that this is a public health crisis that requires major collective action if we are to slow its progression.”
Murren also added:
“This is a time of uncertainty across our country and the globe and we must all do our part to curtail the spread of this virus. We will plan to reopen our resorts as soon as it is safe to do so and we will continue to our employees, guests, and communities in every way that we can during this period of closure.”
Besides this…
…Wynn Resorts has closed its Wynn Las Vegas and Encore casinos as well as Encore Boston Harbor in Massachusetts for two weeks.
Source:
“Covid-19 leads to casino closures across the US”, Daniel Oboyle, igbnorthamerica.com, March 16, 2020.
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This is a smart decision, as the situation is very serious. I know there’s gonna be plenty of financial challenges, but right now, people need to be protected and isolated!