Richard Haddrill Appointed Head of American Gaming Association

The CEO of Bally Technologies is set to steer the American Gaming Association (AGA) through an eventful few years.

Richard Haddrill, CEO of Bally Technologies, was elected as the AGA's new head at last month's annual meeting.

Frank Fahrenkopf Jr, AGA president, predicts that Haddrill and new vice-president James Murrell will help the gambling industry to embrace new opportunities in the future.

Haddrill's appointment comes at a time of sweeping change in the industry. Following the Department of Justice's recent decision that the 1961 Wire Act only applies to sports betting, several states are aiming to enact online gambling legislation.

Nevada, Iowa and California are poised to be the first states to pass legislation, with Connecticut the latest state to get involved. Governor Dannel Malloy this week said it is inevitable that Connecticut will approve online gambling.

The AGA represents the commercial casino entertainment industry on federal legislative and regulatory issues which affect its members.

The association also runs a public education program and develops programs on issues such as responsible gaming.