Nevada Gambling Watchdog’s Analyst Retires After Decades of Service

A recognizable gaming research analyst and expert with decades of experience in Nevada would be stepping down from his role. That’s the case for Michael Lawton, the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s (NGCB) senior economic analyst, a newly released report suggests.

Michael Lawton to Step Down from the NGCB

The executive has been working with the gambling regulator in the state for more than 20 years. In 2010, Lawton was tasked with the provision of the gaming revenue results issued by the NGCB on a monthly and yearly basis.

Holding the strategic role of senior economic analyst, he provided unique insights into the finances of gambling operators holding a license in Nevada. Throughout his extensive career, Lawton collaborated with lawmakers, journalists and analysts from prestigious media outlets.

Holding the role as senior economic analyst at the NGCB, Lawton established solid relationships with gaming industry execs and lawmakers across Nevada. During his tenure, the Board changed eight different chairs. However, this didn’t impact negatively his work, on the contrary, Lawton continued to deliver unique insights thanks to monthly and yearly financial reports, highlighting key performance metrics.

The Analyst Recognized Gaming as a Fascinating Industry

After decades in the sector, Lawton is going to resign from his role at the NGCB. As announced by the Nevada Independent, the senior economic analyst will step down from his role as of next week. It is currently unclear what are Lawton’s future plans and whether or not he intends to remain a part of the gaming industry in the future.

Not unexpectedly, Lawton’s father was part of the gaming sector in Northern Nevada. When Lawton was young, his father worked for Harrah’s Reno and Harrah’s Tahoe. “Whenever my dad met someone, they’d always want to talk about his job. That kind of stuck with me. I always thought gaming was a fascinating industry,” the senior analyst explained.

In addition, Lawton pointed out: “I didn’t realize at the time how important it was to the state. It’s the cornerstone for everything that happens here.” Speaking about his role at the NGCB, he said that he always provided “an intelligent analysis” on the sector and outlined different trends.

Only recently, the NGCB recommended for approval the transfer of the operation of Stockman’s Casino from Full House Resorts to the casino’s new owners, Clarity Game. While this recommendation marked an important part of the plan, the latter company will now seek a green light from the Nevada Gaming Commission.