Were the Riviera not an unaffiliated casino, all its progressive jackpots could be transferred to machines at other affiliated properties (as would happen, say, if MGM Resorts International, closed Excalibur and distributed its progressives to other MGM properties). No, the Riviera is required (and has done so) to submit a letter to the Nevada Gaming Control Board explaining how the money in the progressive machines is to be distributed to patrons, usually in the form of promotions.
As Nevada gaming regulations state, "Except as otherwise provided by this section, the incremental amount of a progressive payoff schedule is an obligation to the licensee’s patrons, and it shall be the responsibility of the licensee if he ceases operation of the progressive game or slot machine for any reason, including a transfer of ownership of the licensed gaming establishment, to arrange for satisfaction of that obligation in a manner approved by the chairman."
In an interesting sidelight, the last Lion’s Share machine at MGM Grand acquired the urban myth that it couldn’t be removed from the floor until its progressive jackpot hit (which it did last Aug. 22), keeping it in operation well past retirement age. But blog Vital Vegas did its homework and discovered the rules which allow for the transfer of progressive jackpots. (You can’t, however, move it to a machine with a higher minimum bet unless you increase the jackpot accordingly.) Still, the Lion’s Share myth worked in MGM’s favor. Or, as Vital Vegas explains, "An MGM casino executive estimated the Lion’s Share machine was played five times more than the average slot machine on MGM Grand’s casino floor."
Pardon the digression, but … the Riv is giving away more the $500,000 in cash and prizes throughout April to celebrate its 60th anniversary, which may be part of the distribution. There may be other giveaways planned, which provides another reason to stop in and take a look before the doors close on May 4.
