Ian Coolbear, Deputy Director, Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Division

Ian Coolbear joined the California Gambling Control Commission (Commission) on April 1, 2024, as the Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Division Deputy Director.

Ian worked for the California State Assembly and Assemblymember Jim Patterson since 2017. As Assemblymember Patterson's Legislative Director since April 2022, Ian advised the Assemblymember on Budget, Communication and Conveyance, Revenue and Taxation, and Governmental Organization committees, which deliberated on many of the cardroom and Tribal gaming industry legislative matters.

Ian has helped secure $1 million for Fresno County to repair egress routes damaged during the Creek Fire. He also helped secure $7.5 million for an Opioid and Fentanyl Response grant program.

Prior to joining the Assemblyman's office, Ian worked as a Public Relations Specialist at a firm in Fresno, CA.

Ian has a Bachelor's in Political Science from California State University, Fresno. Ian also holds a Master's in Public Administration with an emphasis in Public Policy from Grand Canyon University.