iGaming operator PENN Entertainment has appointed former Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chair Ronnie Jones as an independent, non-director member of its Compliance Committee.
Jones, who led the state regulator from 2013 to 2020, brings decades of experience in gaming oversight and law enforcement to the role. Prior to his appointment as Chair, Jones served more than 30 years with the Louisiana State Police. During his tenure at the LGCB, he was responsible for regulatory oversight of Louisiana’s gaming operations, including 15 riverboat casinos, four racetrack gaming venues, land-based casinos, and a network of over 2,000 licensed video poker establishments.
Jones also played a key role in laying the groundwork for Louisiana’s eventual legalization of sports betting, which was passed in 2022. His contributions to regulatory policy earned him recognition as North American Regulator of the Year by the International Masters of Gaming Law in 2017.
The Compliance Committee at PENN is chaired by Thomas N. Auriemma, also an independent non-director, and includes Board members Johnny Hartnett and Carlos Ruisanchez. The appointment of Jones adds further regulatory expertise as PENN continues to operate in a growing number of regulated igaming and sports betting markets across North America.
“Ronnie is a well-respected leader in the regulated gaming space, and with his background and experience we’re pleased to add him as an independent member of our Compliance Committee,” said Jay Snowden, PENN’s CEO and President. “Ronnie’s wealth of industry experience will be an asset to the important work of the committee, which is central to our longstanding commitment to gaming industry compliance and integrity.”
