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The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) will have new management soon.
Gov. Maura Healey announced on Feb. 22 that Chairwoman Cathy Judd-Stein will retire upon completing her five-year term, effective March 21. Healey said in a statement:
“Cathy Judd-Stein led the Massachusetts Gaming Commission through a critical time for the industry, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the launch of sports wagering. We are grateful for her many years of service to the people of Massachusetts and wish her the best in her retirement.”
The administration has started the search for her successor: “Our administration looks forward to beginning the search for an experienced leader to take the reins of this important commission.”
Judd-Stein retires after over 25 years working in public service
Gov. Charlie Baker appointed Judd-Stein to the MGC on Jan. 15, 2019. She was reappointed on March 21 of that year for a full five-year term. During her service, Judd-Stein played a critical role in the agency’s work to regulate:
- The Massachusetts casino industry
- Horse racing
- Sports betting
It was done with a focus on safety and transparency throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. In her over five years as chair of the commission, Judd-Stein:
- Initiated public meetings and roundtables
- Promoted consumer protections and responsible gambling
- Helped launch the legal sports wagering industry in Massachusetts in just six months
In the official MSG news release, Judd-Stein expressed her gratitude:
“During my tenure at the Gaming Commission, I have been grateful for the partnership with my fellow Commissioners and the outstanding accomplishments of our dedicated team.
Together, we have led the Commission through complex issues during transformative times, prioritizing integrity and the health and well-being of gaming employees and patrons, working always to advance the best interests of the Commonwealth.”
Before becoming the commission chair, Judd-Stein was part of five successive gubernatorial administrations, most recently as deputy chief legal counsel for the Office of the Governor.
From 2011-2013, she worked at the Massachusetts State Lottery as assistant executive director, director of policy and special counsel.
Massachusetts collects $1.65B in total taxes from casino operations
According to the MGC release, to date, legal and regulated sports betting has generated over $108.04 million in revenue for the state. The legalization has also driven businesses away from the black market.
The latest MGC’s monthly revenue data shows that Massachusetts’ January gambling activity generated about $93.54 million in revenue for the state’s three casinos:
- Plainridge Park Casino
- MGM Springfield
- Encore Boston Harbor
Another $71.13 million in revenue came from MA sports betting apps, translating into about $40.4 million in tax revenue for the state.
Massachusetts sports betting market went live in person on Jan.31, 2023, with sports betting options limited to the three Massachusetts casinos.
On March 10, 2023, six MA online sportsbook licensees entered the state:
- BetMGM
- Caesars
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- Penn Interactive
- WynnBet
Fanatics and Betr received MGC approval later. To date, the commonwealth has collected approximately $1.65 billion in total taxes and assessments from the casino operations.
