Do you think this change is coming exclusively from the state level (Nevada - GCB) ... or ...
might the Feds (Treasury or U.S. Mint) be influencing or leading the change in policy about "selling" chips?

It reminds me of the crackdown years ago in not using tokens or chips in the gift shops, or even around town, as an equivalent to money.
The Feds seem VERY protective in being the exclusive party to print or mint money used in the USA.

A heightened emphasis on the statement that chips & tokens are to be used "FOR GAMING PURPOSES ONLY"?