Robbie Johns Resigns from Louisiana Gaming Control Board After 37 Years of Service
Robbie Johns, a prominent figure in Louisiana’s gambling regulation, has announced his resignation, citing family commitments as the primary reason.
Johns, a Republican, played a pivotal role in launching sports betting in Louisiana. His departure is set for June 30, marking the end of a distinguished 37-year career in public service.
Tenure and Achievements
Johns was appointed as the head of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board in 2021, just before the legalization of sports betting in the state. Under his leadership, sports betting has grown to contribute nearly $100 million in annual tax revenue. Johns emphasized that his team’s goal was to regulate and implement sports betting in a manner that instills confidence among players, operators, and lawmakers.
Beyond sports betting, Johns was instrumental in attracting significant investments from casino companies. Notably, he facilitated the rebuilding of Caesars’ Horseshoe Casino after it was destroyed by Hurricane Laura. His efforts also led to the refurbishing of several properties, including the Louisiana Live! Casino, Belle of Baton Rouge, and The Queen Baton Rouge.
Future Prospects and Investments
Johns was a strong advocate for further investment in Louisiana’s gaming sector. He aimed to secure a $300 million investment from The Cordish Companies for the Louisiana Live! Casino, which he believed would enhance the property’s competitiveness against neighboring casinos in Oklahoma.
He argued that such investments would not only benefit the individual casinos but also stimulate growth in the broader Shreveport-Bossier market. He cited the new Horseshoe Casino in Lake Charles as an example of a project that expanded the market without cannibalizing existing businesses.
Johns clarified that his resignation was not influenced by Governor Jeff Landry. Instead, he expressed a desire to spend more time with his family. In an interview with the USA Today Network, Johns stated, “I’m about to be 75 years old, and Michelle and I have things we want to do, and this is a full-time job. It’s time.”
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