Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak has announced the creation of the COVID-19 Response, Relief & Recovery Task Force. It has been set up to help mobilize the private sector to assist in ongoing efforts undertaken by state agencies and the Nevada Health Response Center. 

Heading up the force is Jim Murren, who vacated the role of CEO and President of MGM Resorts International this week, earlier than had been planned, to assist with continuity at the firm.

Sisolak’s initiative aims to tackle a number of challenges affecting the state, notably unemployment and securing continued medical supplies. Murren will first assemble a leadership team to establish what is needed and how it can be distributed throughout the state. 

Said the Governor: “It’s going to take all of us working together to battle COVID19 in our state and around the country, and I’m thankful we have a private sector ally in Jim Murren who will help enhance and expand the State of Nevada’s already robust response, relief and recovery efforts.”

He added: “The lack of assistance from the federal government has been frustrating, so Nevada must be resourceful. That’s why we’re taking these proactive steps to mobilize the private sector to help enhance our State and local mitigation and response efforts.”

Nevada has been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with Las Vegas casinos and sportsbooks all shut down as of last week. It’s anticipated that the closures could cost the state’s tourism business up to $39bn.