Cathy Judd-Stein recently announced her intention to retire from her role as chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) at the conclusion of her term on March 21.
The MGC is beginning the search for her successor and will be taking open applications through March 18.
“It has been an honor and privilege to spend over 25 years working in public service for the Commonwealth,” said Judd-Stein. “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 interest of the Commonwealth.”
Governor Maura Healey was effusive in her praise of Judd-Stein’s tenure at the helm of the MGC.
“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," she said. "We are grateful for her many years of service to the people of Massachusetts and wish her the best in her retirement.”
Judd-Stein was first appointed to the MGC in January 2019 by Governor Charlie Baker and reappointed on March 21 of that year for a full five-year term. In her more than five years as chair of the Commission, Judd-Stein played a critical role in the agency’s work to regulate the Massachusetts casino, horse racing, and sports wagering industries.
Overseeing the growth of Massachusetts sports betting
On Aug. 10, 2022, Governor Baker signed H.5164 into law, officially legalizing online and retail sports betting in Massachusetts.
To date, sports betting has generated more than $108 million in revenue for the Bay State since Massachusetts sports betting officially launched when three retail sportsbooks opened on Jan. 31, 2023 and six online sportsbooks went live on March 10.
Six online sportsbooks in Massachusetts still remain active after WynnBet and Betr ceased operations in the Bay State this month: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics Sportsbook.
Massachusetts online sportsbooks recorded their second-largest handle ever in January, collecting just under $638 million in wagers. December 2023’s handle touts the record for MA online sportsbooks with just over $643 million.
The MGC confirmed the most revenue and tax collected since the launch of MA sports betting in its January 2024 revenue report.
Judd-Stein will be associated with overseeing the start of what has become one of the most prolific sports betting markets in the U.S.
