The launch of sports betting in Louisiana has been delayed due to the lack of a Louisiana Gaming Control Board chairman.
Senate President Page Cortez said, “It’s a little bit of a hiccup. We don’t have a Gaming Control Board chair, and until then the board can’t promulgate the rules.”
Governor John Bel Edwards recently signed several bills legalizing the framework for sports betting. The Gaming Control Board must publicize the rules before casinos can begin building sportsbooks and restaurants and bars can secure kiosks where bets can be placed.
Former Chairman Mike Noel resigned as chairman on June 9 rather than face a Senate confirmation hearing where he could have been questioned about his role in the State Police regarding the death of a black man during an arrest. The situation still is under investigation.
Noel was appointed only a year ago when former longtime chairman, Ronnie Jones, had his re-nomination blocked by a state senator.
Edwards’ spokesperson Christina Stephen said, “The governor looks forward to making an appointment sooner rather than later. The governor is working to find a commissioner with the right skill and experience to lead during this important time for the gaming industry in Louisiana.”
Observers said Edwards may name state Senator Ronnie Johns to the job. Johns confirmed he has spoken about it with Edwards. “It’s the governor’s call to make, but should he honor me by offering me the position I would very much like to serve. I think I’d have a lot to offer because the board needs leadership to make sure the industry is compliant, clean and pristine during this critical time.”
Gambling generated about $600 million in state taxes in 2020. The launch of sports betting will be the largest gambling expansion in Louisiana since the legislature established the lottery, casinos and video poker in the early 1990s. Wagering will be available at sportsbooks at the state’s casinos and racetracks, online through mobile devices; and at kiosks at bars and restaurants.
Twenty sports book licenses will be available, and existing casinos and racetracks will have first refusal option. Each of those licenses will include two skins, for partnering with mobile application providers.
Last November, voters in 55 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes approved legalizing sports betting in their communities. However, during the spring legislative session, lawmakers had to set up the framework to regulate and tax sports wagers. Next the gaming board must get public feedback on the rules, as soon as a chairman is selected.
Geofencing technology will keep residents in parishes that did not approve sports betting from accessing mobile sports betting sites.
