In a significant development for the Louisiana gaming industry, Christopher Hebert has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB). Hebert, who previously served as a director handling gaming in the attorney general’s office, steps into this pivotal role following the retirement of Ronnie Johns. Johns retires as one of the most influential figures in Louisiana’s gaming scene, having overseen the launch of legal digital sports betting in January 2022.
In his previous capacity in the attorney general’s office, Hebert was integral to the oversight and regulation of gaming activities, collaborating closely with the LGCB on various gambling issues. His promotion to Chairman marks a historic moment as he becomes the first African-American to hold this esteemed position, according to a press release from the office of Governor Jeff Landry.
“Proper regulation of the gaming industry is crucial at a time in which gaming revenue continues to be a substantial part of our state’s economy,” Hebert stated via press release. “I am both humbled and honored that Governor Landry has tapped me as the first African-American Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, and I vow to continue the hard work of previous chairmen in ensuring that gaming is free from criminal and corrupt elements.”
Hebert’s exemplary work in the Attorney General’s office has not gone unnoticed. “He is a great asset to the gaming industry and regulatory community,” said Mississippi regulator Jay McDaniel. McDaniel further noted the collaborative efforts between neighboring gaming jurisdictions, emphasizing Hebert’s helpfulness, responsiveness, and leadership qualities. These accolades are echoed by former Louisiana regulator Ronnie Jones, who praised Hebert’s extensive knowledge and integrity in the realm of gaming regulation.
Louisiana’s gaming industry has a storied history, dating back to the early 1990s with the introduction of brick-and-mortar casinos. The landscape evolved significantly in 2020 when voters in 55 parishes approved the legalization of retail and digital sports betting via a ballot initiative. This move set the stage for the robust regulatory framework that Hebert has been instrumental in developing.
Louisiana now hosts over 20 physical casinos and, under current sports betting law, can accommodate up to 21 wagering platforms.
. State law mandates that sports betting operators must be connected to existing casinos or horse race tracks, ensuring a structured and well-regulated market. This regulatory approach has driven notable growth in the state’s gaming revenue, making proper oversight more critical than ever.
“Chris served us well as counsel to the Board,” remarked Jones, highlighting Hebert’s competence and commitment to maintaining the integrity of the gaming industry. Hebert is widely respected across the country by other regulators and their staff for his deep understanding of gaming regulations and ethical conduct.
As Hebert steps into his new role, the gaming industry in Louisiana continues to flourish, reflecting broader national trends. iGB recently analyzed monthly US state results, noting further growth in sports betting in Louisiana contrasted by a spending decline in New Hampshire. This underscores the dynamic nature of the gaming industry and the importance of vigilant regulation.
“I am proud to announce the appointment of Christopher Hebert as the Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board,” Governor Landry stated via press release. “He has the experience and background needed to properly regulate such a large industry.”
The evolution of gaming laws in Louisiana has seen significant milestones, including the transition of casinos from riverboats to land-based establishments. Initially, all Louisiana casinos, except for Harrah’s in New Orleans’ French Quarter, were required to operate on riverboats. Over time, state laws and regulations have adapted, allowing the LGCB to oversee the relocation of these casinos to more accessible land-based locations, thereby enhancing their appeal and operational efficiency.
Hebert’s appointment is a forward-thinking move aimed at strengthening the regulatory framework of Louisiana’s gaming industry. As the first African-American Chairman of the LGCB, Hebert’s leadership signifies a progressive step towards inclusivity and excellence in governance. His vast experience and unwavering integrity promise to uphold the high standards set by his predecessors, ensuring that Louisiana’s gaming industry remains both prosperous and reputable.
