Venetian Becomes First Las Vegas Strip Poker Room to Mandate Slide Dealing

The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas has made slide dealing mandatory in its poker room, becoming the first venue on the Strip to do so. The room, known for its 50 card tables, is switching from the traditional pitch to a method in which cards stay flat on the felt as they are delivered to players.

The change is meant to reduce cheating risks. When cards are pitched through the air, their faces can briefly be visible, which could allow hidden cameras placed at table level to capture players' hole cards. Keeping cards against the felt virtually eliminates that exposure.

Tommy LaRosa, director of poker operations at the Venetian, said the approach adds another layer of security to the game. He said the decision was driven by the need to protect the player experience as technology continues to evolve. Dealers were given training and time to practice before the rule took effect. LaRosa acknowledged that dealers and players will need an adjustment period, but said the initial response has been positive. He added that the casino wants a smooth transition that preserves the efficiency and professionalism expected in the room, and that he expects many players to welcome measures that strengthen game integrity.

The Venetian is not the first poker room in Las Vegas to adopt the technique. South Point, whose 30-table room sits a few miles south of the Strip, introduced it in August, a couple of months earlier. That move prompted debate in the city about whether more casinos should follow.

The technique is more established abroad than in the United States. PokerStars made slide dealing mandatory at European Poker Tour events last year and at the same time tightened restrictions on smart glasses and other electronic devices.

The rule change coincides with the Venetian unveiling Milano, a new extension of The Palazzo featuring almost 300 ultra-luxury suites. Separately, earlier this summer the Nevada Gaming Commission fined the Venetian $7.2 million over its dealings with illegal bookmaker Mathew Bowyer.