As chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, Christopher Hebert deals with the constantly evolving challenges in reaching and helping problem gamblers every day.
Hebert played a key role in creating Louisiana’s Problem Gambling Resource Services (PGRS) program that pairs Louisiana’s gaming regulation division with the state’s Office of Behavioral Health. He also led the state’s effort to develop sports betting regulations.
SBC Americas spoke with Hebert in advance of his appearance at the upcoming SBC Summit Americas about his state’s efforts to lead in responsible gaming:
What can other states learn from your work in helping to develop the Problem Gambling Resource Services (PGRS) program in Louisiana?
Christopher Hebert: Other states can learn that responsible gaming programs are strongest when they are built through collaboration. In Louisiana, the Problem Gambling Resource Services program was developed through a partnership between the Louisiana Department of Justice Gaming Division and the Louisiana Department of Health’s Office of Behavioral Health. That partnership helped connect the legal, regulatory, and treatment communities in a meaningful way.
The lesson is that regulators do not have to build these systems alone. We need public health professionals, treatment providers, law enforcement, operators, and community partners at the table. The goal is to make sure people know help is available before a problem becomes a crisis.
What forms of communication about responsible gaming has Louisiana found to be most effective in engaging players?
Hebert: The most effective communication is clear, direct, and visible at the point where players are actually making decisions. Responsible gaming messages work best when they are easy to understand and easy to act on.
That includes signage in gaming establishments, information on websites, self-exclusion resources, employee training, and direct referrals to help services. We also believe communication should not feel judgmental. It should remind people that gaming is entertainment, that limits matter, and that help is available.
How can regulators and operators best work together to create comprehensive responsible gaming safeguards?
Hebert: Regulators and operators have different roles, but we share a common responsibility to protect the public and preserve the integrity of the industry. Operators are on the front lines. Regulators set expectations, enforce standards, and make sure safeguards are more than just words on paper.
The best approach is ongoing communication, consistent training, strong internal controls, clear reporting requirements, and a willingness to adapt as new risks emerge. In Louisiana, we emphasize collaboration while still maintaining firm regulatory oversight.
How has the evolution of technology improved the tools available to state regulators to facilitate a healthier environment for players?
Hebert: Technology has given regulators and operators better tools to identify patterns, improve compliance, and communicate with players in real time. In the sports wagering and online gaming space, technology can help support age and identity verification, geolocation, account monitoring, responsible gaming messaging, and self-exclusion enforcement.
It also allows regulators to review data in ways that were not possible years ago. That data can help us better understand player behavior, identify potential risks, and ensure operators are following the rules designed to protect consumers.
As new forms of gaming develop at a rapid pace, what do you see as the most important issues facing the industry from a regulatory perspective right now?
Hebert: The most important issue is making sure innovation does not outpace consumer protection. We are seeing new products, new platforms, sweepstakes-style models, prediction markets, and other offerings that test the boundaries of existing gaming laws.
From a regulatory perspective, we must focus on suitability, transparency, responsible gaming protections, payment integrity, advertising practices, and whether these products are operating legally within the state. Licensed operators are required to follow strict rules.
Unregulated or illegal operators often avoid those safeguards, which puts consumers at risk and undermines the regulated market.
Our job is to protect the public, maintain confidence in the industry, and make sure gaming in Louisiana is conducted fairly, responsibly, and within the law.
Christopher Hebert will be moderating the “Clearer Messages, Safer Players: Streamlining Responsible Gambling and Self-Exclusion through Coordinated Communication and Smarter Technology” session in the Player Protection Symposium at SBC Summit Americas 2026.
SBC Summit Americas 2026 will take place at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale from June 9-11 and host 10,000 delegates focused on the U.S. and Latin American betting and gaming markets. Operators and affiliates are eligible for a free VIP Pass, granting full access to all conference sessions, the show floor, and our exclusive evening networking events.
