There is a changing of the guard at the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States as Indiana state Sen. Jon Ford is retiring from his post within the state and, in turn, stepping down as NCLGS president.
Ford is stepping down from the state senate after serving for nine years. He was last re-elected in 2022, so he is stepping down with more than two years left in his term.
West Virginia Delegate Shawn Fluharty was already set to take over the role from Ford in January but will instead assume the post effective Oct. 15.
“Legislators, gaming regulators, and gaming operators from around the country owe Senator Ford a debt of gratitude for his leadership to the industry,” said Fluharty. “Jon never discussed party affiliation or played politics. His modus operandi was about how regulated gaming can bring economic opportunities and jobs to not only his district, but the entire country. Jon will be a friend for life. He helped bring the organization to another level and I look forward to continuing that progress as President of NCLGS.”
“It’s been a great honor to serve the people of Indiana for the past decade. Along with education, economic development through regulated gaming has been a passion of mine in the Senate. Gaming policy in Indiana, just like at NCLGS, is a bi-partisan endeavor. You can work across party lines and if you get good results, you’ll be able to provide great jobs and economic development for your constituents,” said Ford.
“I found working with NCLGS to be very refreshing because the organization is built around the principles of getting the best and the brightest in the gaming industry into one room to discuss the issues of the day. The organization helped me learn about all aspects of gaming, from horse racing to lotteries and casinos to digital gaming and sports betting.”
