David Rebuck, New Jersey Gambling Chief, Retires
David Rebuck, who has served as New Jersey’sdirector of the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) for the last 13 years, announced his retirement Thursday afternoon, effective immediately.
Rebuck oversaw the state’s foray into online gambling in 2013 as well as its jump into the online sports betting industry less than a month after PASPA was repealed.
“Throughout his career, David Rebuck has exemplified professionalism, innovation, and leadership as the gaming industry transformed, first with the legalization of Internet gaming in 2013 and then with the new era of sports gaming in 2018,” Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said in a press release. “His extensive knowledge of the gaming and casino industry has made New Jersey a recognized regulatory leader and pacesetterin the United States.”
Rebuck began his career with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office (which oversees the DGE) in 1988, providing legal counsel and evaluating agency performance. He later became a senior policy advisor in the Governor’s Office and was appointed director of DGE in 2011.
During his tenure, he oversaw significant regulatory reforms and spearheaded initiatives such as legalizing internet casino gambling and sports wagering.
Rebuck will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions at the 27th Annual East Coast Gaming Congress on April 18.
“I have always said the achievements at DGE have not been the result of any one person,” Rebuck said. “I have been privileged and grateful to work with an amazing team at DGE and to serve under two governors and eight attorneys general.”
Interim replacement named
Deputy Director Mary Jo Flaherty will take on the role of interim director, according to Platkin.
“Mary Jo is a respected and talented lawyer, and brings with her over 40 years of experience of regulating the gaming industry within DGE,” Platkin said. “I am grateful for her stepping up to lead the Division at this critical time.”
The Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), established in 1977 under the Casino Control Act, safeguards New Jersey’s casino gaming industry. Its responsibilities expanded to include online gaming in 2013 and sports wagering in 2018. DGE ensures industry integrity and public safety by enforcing gaming laws and regulations, conducting investigations, and prosecuting violations.
New Jersey’s gaming industry has seen remarkable growth, with 2023 revenue hitting a record $5.78 billion, fueled by online gaming and sports wagering. Internet gaming revenue reached $1.92 billion, while sports wagering saw a total handle of $11.97 billion, surpassing $1 billion in gross revenue for the first time in state history.
