Update (3.31.22): After considering three finalists, the commissioners unanimously voted to appoint Lou Trombetta as the first executive director for the new regulatory body. Mr. Trombetta was serving as head of the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering and earlier worked as an attorney for that Division and the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco.

While deliberating on their options going forward, commissioners noted the importance of subject-matter expertise and continuity in light of the July 1, 2022 transition from the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering to the Florida Gaming Control Commission. Frankly, the author agrees with those priorities and believes that the new executive director is a perfect fit in this role. With this critical hire made, expect to see additional substantive and logistical discussions and decisions at forthcoming Commission meetings. The entire session can be viewed on The Florida Channel’s website: https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/3-31-22-florida-gaming-control-commission/.

Original Article (3.24.22): The Florida Gaming Control Commission is ramping up its operations, with an initial public meeting now scheduled for March 31, 2022. The agenda (below) is important — the Commission is set to appoint its first executive director.

The 2021 legislation that established the Commission set an April 1, 2022 deadline to name a qualified individual to supervise, direct, coordinate, and administer the activities needed to fulfill the Commission’s responsibilities. The appointment cannot be made until after the results of a level 2 background screening are received and the Commission determines that the person meets all the statutory requirements for the position.

Good luck and congratulations to the incoming executive director, who will play a critical role in shaping the next chapter of Florida’s gaming industry.

Notice of Meeting/Workshop Hearing

The FLORIDA GAMING CONTROL COMMISSION announces a public meeting, to which all interested persons are invited to attend.

DATE AND TIME: Thursday, March 31, 2022, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. PLACE: Cabinet Meeting Room, The Capitol, Lower Level, Tallahassee, Florida

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: This is a meeting to address the appointment of the executive director of the Florida Gaming Control Commission and other general business of the commission. The public meeting agenda, related documents, and Florida Gaming Control Commission contact information are available by contacting Bryan Barber at Bryan.Barber@myfloridalicense.com or (850)717-1761.