Deputy AG discussed as possible gaming commission chairman

Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2001 | 10:57 a.m.

A top gaming attorney within the attorney general's office is being mentioned as a possible candidate for chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission.

Jeffrey Rodefer, assistant chief deputy attorney general in the gaming division, said he's interested in the position, though he hasn't discussed it with Gov. Kenny Guinn. Guinn is searching for a replacement for Chairman Brian Sandoval, who stepped down Aug. 1.

"It takes someone who has knowledge of gaming law, the regulatory framework in the state, the (gaming) industry, and they need to be abreast of the issues that are facing the regulatory system right now, (such as) Internet gaming, college sports wagering," Rodefer said. "Whoever the governor chooses will probably be someone with that background, who will hit the ground running."

Rodefer has been with the attorney general's office for 12 years, and has been with the gaming division for the last eight years. Attorneys in the gaming division represent both the state Gaming Control Board and the commission. He would have to resign this position to take the part-time chairman's job, but said he's prepared to go into private practice.

Other possible candidates mentioned for the chairman's job include state Sen. Mark James, R-Las Vegas, and control board member Scott Scherer. But both men have said they haven't decided if they'd take the chairmanship, since they'd have to give up their current positions.