Gaming regulatory veteran Ronnie Jones from Louisiana appointed by Penn Entertainment

Gaming Regulator Ronnie Jones Appointed by Penn Entertainment

Article Title:Ronnie Jones Joins Penn Entertainment's Compliance Committee After Controversial Exit from Louisiana Gaming Control Board

In a move that bolsters Penn Entertainment's Compliance Committee, Ronnie Jones, a seasoned gaming regulator, has been appointed as an independent, non-director member. Jones, who previously led the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB) from 2013 to 2020, brings his extensive experience to the table, having overseen significant regulatory changes and the transition of casinos from riverboats to inland locations.

The appointment comes after Jones' controversial exit from the LGCB in June 2020, when he was not reconfirmed by the state Senate. Rumours suggest that state Sen. Karen Cater Peterson (D-New Orleans) was behind the push to oust Jones from the LGCB. However, these allegations have not been substantiated.

Peterson, an admitted gambling addict, made headlines in 2019 for trying to enter a casino despite self-enrolling in Louisiana's voluntary exclusion program. In April 2022, she resigned after admitting to stealing $140,000 from the Louisiana Democratic Party, which she chaired, to cover her gambling debts. She was sentenced to 22 months in a halfway house after pleading guilty to wire fraud.

Jay Snowden, CEO and president of Penn Entertainment, expressed his pleasure about Jones' addition to the Compliance Committee. "Ronnie's background and experience will be an asset to the Compliance Committee's work," Snowden said. "His regulatory expertise will help us navigate the complex legal environment of the gaming industry, ensuring that we maintain compliance with various state regulations."

The Compliance Committee, led by Thomas Auriemma, is primarily responsible for ensuring that Penn Entertainment's operations comply with all federal, state, and local laws. In addition to compliance, the committee is also tasked with the promotion of responsible, sustainable gaming, a company's code of conduct, and the oversight of legal matters.

Penn Entertainment operates numerous gaming properties across the United States, including in Louisiana, making Jones' regulatory background valuable for ensuring compliance with complex gaming laws. As of Dec. 31, 2024, Penn Entertainment managed almost 2.5 million square feet of gaming facilities with 41,725 slot machines, 1,166 table games, and 7,321 hotel rooms. The company owns and/or operates 43 gaming and racing properties in 20 states.

Gaming is among the most regulated industries, with companies determined to be noncompliant subjected to costly fines and the possible revocation of their operating license. With Jones' appointment, Penn Entertainment is well-positioned to maintain compliance and operate effectively within the legal frameworks governing its operations.

The news article about Jones' appointment was posted on August 4, 2025, at 10:52h, and was last updated at 10:53h.

[1] Source: Penn Entertainment press release, August 4, 2025.