The meteoric rise of regulated sports betting in the United States has created a range of challenges for operators; some of which were anticipated, others not. One area that’s seen growth, and will continue to see growth, is the effort by operators to influence government regulations and policies. It’s in this environment that FanDuel announced the hiring of two new members of its government relations team, James Hartmann and Louis Trombetta.
Hartmann is a former prosecutor who turned to politics, and then gambling law over the course of his legal career. He was recently involved in crafting the legislation that brought regulated sports betting to Illinois. Hartmann praised his new employer in a recent press release saying, “FanDuel has always stood out to me for the company’s innovation and its commitment to shaping the future of gaming in a responsible way.”
Trombetta comes to FanDuel with a decade of experience in gaming law and a stint as the Executive Director of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. Of particular note, Trombetta has plenty of experience dealing with Sunshine State tribal gaming. That background will certainly be of use as FanDuel and its competitors battle entrenched tribal gaming interests that are blocking gaming expansion in places like California.
“I’m thrilled to join FanDuel and transition from a regulatory role to working with an operator that is committed to building this industry in a sustainable manner.I look forward to contributing to their continued success and helping to shape the future of the industry.”
FanDuel chief of state government relations Ceasar Fernandez praised the new hires adding, “As we continue to evolve our government relations team, we are excited to bring in two experienced professionals who understand our business, are deeply respected by legislators and can help us continue to show the positive impact legal and regulated gambling can have for states.”