Florida Senate Confirms Five Members of the Florida Gaming Control Commission

The Florida Senate has formally confirmed all five members of the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC), solidifying the leadership of the state’s primary gambling regulatory body at a time when enforcement against illegal wagering operations is expanding across Florida.

Lawmakers approved Julie Brown as Chair of the commission. The Senate’s decision also reappoints John Michael D’Aquila and Tina Repp, allowing them to continue their service on the regulatory board.

In addition, Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida, appointed two new commissioners — Peter Cuderman and William Spicola — whose nominations were also approved by the Senate.

Key Role in Florida’s Gaming Regulation

The Florida Gaming Control Commission oversees key aspects of the state’s gambling industry, including parimutuel wagering, cardrooms, slot machines, and other licensed gaming facilities. However, the commission does not regulate the state lottery.

The confirmation comes as the FGCC has taken an increasingly active role in enforcement actions against illegal gambling operations, an issue that has drawn greater attention from regulators and lawmakers in recent years.

“I thank Gov. DeSantis and the Florida Senate for the opportunity to continue serving the great state of Florida as Chair of the Florida Gaming Control Commission,” Brown said. “I am proud of the work we have done since the FGCC’s inception to combat illegal gambling, which has become increasingly predatory on Florida’s most vulnerable populations.”

Brown also highlighted the evolving nature of the gaming sector and the need for strong regulatory oversight.

“The industry continues to evolve in ways that will challenge us, but our team is adaptive, skilled and ready for the challenges ahead,” she said. “We have a dedicated group of commissioners working hard to regulate legal gambling while protecting Floridians from illegal operations.”

Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Intensifies

The Florida Gaming Control Commission has led several high-profile raids targeting illegal gambling establishments throughout the state.

According to the agency, enforcement actions in 2025 resulted in the confiscation of $14.47 million in illegal gambling proceeds and the seizure of 6,725 illegal slot machines. Authorities noted that these figures represent a significant increase compared with 2024, reflecting stronger enforcement efforts.

With the Senate’s confirmation of the full commission, the FGCC is expected to continue expanding oversight and enforcement activities as the gambling landscape in Florida continues to evolve.