Nevada mask mandate rescinded for most areas, including casinos

Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak rescinded the state's mask mandate during a press conference on Thursday, effective immediately. Masks are no longer required in public places, but employers and organizations may still set their own policies and require them.

Federally, masks are still mandated in airports, on planes, and on public buses and school buses, said Sisolak.

California's indoor mask guidance will drop on February 15.

Sisolak said teachers and schools will no longer be required to wear masks but school districts will need to work with their local health authorities to have plans in place to deal with outbreaks. Each school district can set their own regulations.

"Please be as considerate and as kind as you can possibly be to people that are still choosing to exercise their right to wear a mask," said Sisolak.

Individuals are no longer required to wear a mask in public indoor settings in licensed gaming establishments unless a local jurisdiction still imposes a requirement.

J. Brin Gibson, chair of the Nevada State Gaming Commission sent all licensed facilities a letter immediately after Sisolak's statement, advising them of the directive and change to its regulations on masks.

"In conjunction with state and local health officials, the Nevada Gaming Control Board will continue to ensure that best practices are used in the mitigation of COVID-19, and its effect on licensee operations, and will issue further notices as appropriate," said Gibson in the letter.

Masks and protective equipment requirements in facilities serving vulnerable populations - like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities - will be overseen at the direction of the state's Department of Health and Human Services.

"The safety of healthcare staff and patients are our top priority," said Sisolak.