John Pappas stands down as PPA director
Pappas to be replaced by current vice president Rich Muny, while the organisation will also consider sports betting advocacy
John Pappas will stand down from his role as executive director of the Poker Players Alliance, the advocacy group announced today.
Pappas will be replaced by current vice president Rich Muny, although he will continue to serve the board of directors act as a strategic advisor to the PPA.
The PPA did not give a specific reason for the move, but said it will continue its recent pivot to grassroots engagement rather than traditional lobbying, following “a significant reduction” in financial support from the online gaming industry in recent months.
“During this time, the organization has not missed a beat and was an instrumental force in the legalization of internet gaming in Pennsylvania this past October,” the PPA said.
“There has never been greater momentum than right now for the advancement of sensible internet gaming policy in the US,” Pappas added.
“Whether lawmakers are considering poker, casino gambling or even sports betting, a strong and organized grassroots effort will be critical to legislative success.
“I am proud of the work I have done with the PPA board of directors and the amazing PPA staff to bring us to this point. I will miss working for the poker community on a day-to-day basis, but I am confident that the PPA will continue its great work with Rich Muny at the helm.”
The PPA also announced today it is gauging its membership interest on the topic of sports betting and consumer advocacy.
“With changes to federal and state laws governing sports betting being considered this year, it is important to know if PPA’s large and organized advocacy efforts can be leveraged to assist consumers as new public policy around sports betting is established,” the group noted.
PPA has launched a webpage dedicated to sports betting and is emailing a survey to its membership.