MGM Resorts debuts 'Seven-Point Safety Plan' for reopening during pandemic

Legendary gambling consortium MGM Resorts International on Tuesday released what it called a "seven-point safety plan" to reopen its casino floors to patrons while allowing them to gamble safely during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 

The plan is meant to "give people the tools they need to be safe and responsible and create environments designed to curb [the coronavirus's] spread," the company said in the document; the initiative "addresses everything from employee screening, masks, cleaning and air quality, to digital innovations that put you in control of your check-in experience."

The corporation stipulates that employees will be required to undergo regular temperature checks and medical queries regarding any possible symptoms; they will also be required to wear masks, and guests will be "strongly encourage[d] to wear them." 

The resorts will also temporarily shutter their buffets. Additionally, in an effort to facilitate social distancing, "every other slot machine will be placed out-of-service with its chair removed in areas where machines are closer than 6 feet apart." 

The company is also implementing a protocol in which guests can check into their hotel rooms via their smartphones. Digital menus will also be provided to guests via smartphones in the hotels' restaurants.