The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) is undergoing a leadership change.
The state’s gaming regulator has announced that Director David Rebuck is stepping down from his position immediately after 13 years in the role. Rebuck, who first joined the DGE as its deputy attorney in 1988, was the longest-serving director in the agency’s history.
“Throughout his career, David 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,” said New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin in a statement. “His extensive knowledge of the gaming and casino industry has made New Jersey a recognized regulatory leader and pacesetter in the U.S.”
Under Rebuck’s leadership, New Jersey developed into one of America’s top gaming markets as a jurisdiction that has authorized sports betting, retail casinos, and iGaming.
In 2013, New Jersey became the first jurisdiction in America to offer iGaming after significant changes to the state’s Casino Control Act under Rebuck. New Jersey’s iGaming industry continues to reach new milestones as casinos and their partners reported $183.3 million in iGaming wins in January, a monthly record. The results were up 19.9% compared to January 2023.
Rebuck’s last full month as Director also saw growth across several gaming verticals with total gambling revenue reaching $559.1 million in January 2024, a 28% increase year-over-year. The Garden State’s more than 15 sports betting operators generated $170.8 million in revenue in January 2024, up from $72.3 million in January 2023.
Rebuck will be recognized for his accomplishments and contributions in April at the 27th annual East Coast Gaming Congress where he will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award.
“I have always said the achievements at DGE have not been the result of any one person,” said Rebuck. “I have been privileged and grateful to work with an amazing team at DGE and to serve under two governors and eight attorneys general.”
Rebuck will be replaced by Deputy Director Mary Jo Flaherty, who will step in on an interim basis. Flaherty has worked for the DGE since 1979 and as Deputy Director provided oversight for casino and employee licensing. She was also tasked with overseeing public record requests, financial analysts, and equal employment opportunities within the DGE.
