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California Casinos | Updates 2024

California has 76 Indian Gaming Casinos

NEWS  |  MIN AGE  |  REGIONS  |  LARGEST  |  CARDROOMS

California is the nation's largest Indian gaming state in the nation with total revenues of $9 billion annually. There are 76 Indian casinos and 5 mini-casinos.

The 76 California Indian gaming casinos are owned by 73 of the state's 109 tribes. Non-casino tribes receive a share of casino revenues through the state-managed Indian Gaming Revenue Sharing Trust Fund (RSTF). California Indian casinos operate 70,000+ total slot machines and 2,000+ table games. These numbers exceed those of any other state.

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California Regional Casinos

NORTHERN CA: Counties include Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Madera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Benito, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Yolo, Yuba

CENTRAL CA: Counties include Fresno, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne

SOUTHERN CA: Counties include Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura


California's Largest Indian Casinos

The following lists the largest Indian casinos in California based on total number of slot machines, table games, and square footage of the casino.

Southern California has a total of 30 operating Indian casinos and one in development. Central California has a total of 7 tribal casinos and one in development. Northern California has a total of 42 Indian casino and 3 more in development. Source: National Indian Gaming Commission.


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California Minimum Gambling Age

California's minimum gambling ages are 21 years old at tribal casinos, 18 years at tribal casinos without alcohol license, 21 for poker, 21 for bingo, 18 for bingo without alcohol license, 18 for horse racing, and 18 for the lottery.

Indian Casinos: The legal age to gamble in a California Indian casino is either 18 years old or 21 depending on whether the casino has a state-issued alcohol license. Casinos serving alcohol require a minimum gambling age of 21 to comply with state licensing reuirements.

Some casinos allow people under the minimum age to enter unrestricted areas inside their casino; however, you should check with the casino first before visiting. Other casinos enforce the 21 years limit throughout their facility.

Poker Cardrooms: You must be 21 years or older. Visit our sectiion about California Poker Cardrooms.


News Headlines

News California voters still oppose sports betting initiatives November 30, 2023 - After California voters rejected two sports betting ballot measures last year, a new poll finds voter opposition will continue against any new sports betting initiatives next year. ... Read more News California Tribes reject new sports betting proposal November 21, 2023 - Last month the first sports betting initiatives for the 2024 election were filed with the California Attorney General's Office. One filing proposed a tribal framework to exclusively ... Read more News 2024 Tribal Sports Betting Proposals Filed in California October 29, 2023 - The first two California sports betting proposals have been filed for the 2024 election. The initiatives were filed yesterday with the California Attorney General's Office. ... Read more News California sports betting: What's next? November 20, 2022 - The two California sports betting propositions (26, 27) on last week's ballot both went down in overwhelming defeats. Prop 26, which proposed sports betting inside tribal casinos, was opposed by 69% of voters. Prop 27 ... Read more News California Prop 26 v Prop 27 Ballot Battle: Most Expensive in US History! September 22, 2022 - The stakes are high in California for two sports betting propositions on the Nov. 8 election ballot. Supporters and opposers of Prop 26 and Prop 27 have already spent ... Read more News California Sports Betting Ballot Measures: State of the War! July 16, 2022 - California voters will decide in November whether to approve either of two ballot proposals authorizing a constitutional amendment to legalize sports betting. Voters will choose either retail or online sports ... Read more News Second California Sports Betting Measure Qualifies for November Ballot May 12, 2022 - A mobile sports betting measure received enough signatures last week to qualify as a choice on California's November ballot. The measure titled "Californians for Solutions to Homelessness ... Read more More Headlines ...
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California Casinos and Cardrooms

Gaming Compacts
California has gaming compacts for 66 casinos which allows Class III gaming, where players bet against the house. The remaining casino operate Class II gaming where players bet against other players.

History
In 1987 California became the birthplace of Indian casinos when the United States Supreme Court ruled in the case California v. Cabazon Band of Mission Indians. The Court ruled that tribes can operate casinos outside of state jurisdiction if the state has not directly prohibited gambling.

CARDROOMS
The following lists 72 state-licensed cardrooms operating in California. The California Gambling Control Commission has issued a total of 88 licenses but 20 licensees are currently inactive.

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California Casino Map

There are Indian casinos in the 27 California counties with red dots on the map below. (Mouse over the red dots for county names.) Click on any county for local casino information or scroll below the map to search an alphabetical list of counties and their casinos.

California Casino Map

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California Indian Casinos by County

California Indian casinos are listed below by county. Detailed information about each casino is available by clicking the name of the casino.

COUNTY LIST

AMADOR COUNTY

Harrah's Northern California Casino
4650 Coal Mine Road
Ione, California 95640

Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort
12222 New York Ranch Road
Jackson, California 95642
(800) 822-WINN
(209) 223-1677

BUTTE COUNTY

Feather Falls Casino & Lodge
3 Alverda Drive
Oroville, California 95966-9379
(877) 652-4646
(530) 533-3885

Gold Country Casino
4020 Olive Highway
Oroville, CA 95966
(530) 534-9892

Mechoopda Casino
149 Openshaw Road
Oroville, CA 95965
Highway 99 and Highway 149

COLUSA COUNTY

Colusa Casino Resort
3770 Highway 45
Colusa, California 95932-1267
(800) 655-UWIN
(800) 655-8946
(530) 458-8844

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

San Pablo Lytton Casino
13255 San Pablo Ave
San Pablo, CA 94806 USA
(510) 215-7888

DEL NORTE COUNTY

Elk Valley Casino
2500 Howland Hill Road
Crescent City, California 95531-9241
(888) 574-2744
(707) 464-1020

Lucky 7 Casino
350 North Indian Road
Smith River, California 95567
(866) 777-7170
(707) 487-7777

Lucky 7 Fuel Mart
13450 Hwy 101 N.
Smith River, CA 95567
(707) 487-0676

Redwood Hotel Casino
171 Klamath Blvd
Klamath, CA 95548
(707) 482-1777

EL DORADO COUNTY

Red Hawk Casino
1 Red Hawk Boulevard
Placerville , CA 95667
(888) 573-3495

FRESNO COUNTY

Mono Wind Casino
37302 Rancheria Lane
Auberry, California 93602-1060
(559) 855-4350

Table Mountain Casino
8184 Table Mountain Road
Friant, California 93626
800-541-3637
559-822-7777

HUMBOLDT COUNTY

Bear River Casino
11 Bear Paws Way
Loleta, CA 95551
1-800-761-BEAR (2327)

Blue Lake Casino
777 Casino Way
Blue Lake, CA 95525
Phone: (877) BLC-2WIN

Playstation 777
777 Casino Way
Blue Lake, CA 95525
Phone: (707) 668-9770

Cher-Ae Heights Bingo & Casino
27 Scenic Drive
Trinidad, California 95570-9767
(800) 684-2464
(707) 677-3611

Lucky Bear Casino
Shopping Center, Highway 96
Hoopa, CA 95546
(530) 625-4211

IMPERIAL COUNTY

Quechan Casino Resort
525 Algodones Road
Winterhaven, CA 92283
1-888-777-4946

Red Earth Casino
Hwy 86 & Black Diamond Rd
Salton City, California 92274
(760) 397-8144

INYO COUNTY

Wanaaha Casino
2742 North Sierra Highway
Bishop, California 93514
(888) 372-4883
(760) 873-4150

Winnedumah Win's Casino
135 South Highway 395
Independence, California 93526
(760) 878-5160

KERN COUNTY

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon (Proposed)
Mettler, Kern County, CA
(661) 834-8566

Ridgecrest Native American Entertainment & Gaming Facility (Proposed)
100 W. California Ave
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
(760) 499-5000

KINGS COUNTY

Tachi Palace Casino Resort
17225 Jersey Avenue
Lemoore, California 93245-9760
(559) 924-7751

LAKE COUNTY

Konocti Vista Casino Resort, Marina & RV Park
2755 Mission Rancheria Road
Finley, CA 95435
(800) 386-1950
(707) 262-1900

Robinson Rancheria Resort & Casino
1545 East Highway 20
Nice, California 95464-8619
800-809-3636

Running Creek Casino
635 E. Highway 20
Upper Lake, CA 95485
(707) 262-262-5500

Twin Pine Casino
22223 Highway 29
Middletown, California 95461-9754
(800) 564-4872
(707) 987-0197

LASSEN COUNTY

Diamond Mountain Casino
900 Skyline Drive
Susanville, California 96130
(530) 252-1613

MADERA COUNTY

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino
711 Lucky Lane
Coarsegold, California 93614
866-7-WIN-WIN
866-7-946-946
559-661-3033

North Fork Mono Casino & Resort
Madera, CA

MENDOCINO COUNTY

Coyote Valley Casino
7751 North State Street
Redwood Valley, CA 95418
(707) 485-0700

Garcia River Casino
22215 Windy Hollow Road
Point Arena, CA 95468
(707) 467-5300

Hidden Oaks Casino
76700 Covelo Road
Covelo, CA 95428
(707) 983-6896

Hopland Sho-Ka-Wah Casino & Bingo
13101 Nokomis Road
Hopland, California 95449-9725
(707) 744-1395
(888) SHOKAWAH

Red Fox Casino & Bingo
200 Cahto Drive
Laytonville, California 95454
(888) 4-REDFOX
(888) 473-3369
(707) 984-6800

Sherwood Valley Casino
100 Kawi Place
Willits, California 95490-4674
(707) 459-7330

MODOC COUNTY

Desert Rose Casino
901 County Road 56
Alturas, CA 96101
(530) 233-3141

PLACER COUNTY

Thunder Valley Casino
1200 Athens Avenue
Lincoln CA 95648
Exit Hwy 65 at Twelve Bridges
916-408-7777

RIVERSIDE COUNTY

Aqua Caliente Casino Cathedral City
68960 E Palm Canyon Dr
Cathedral City, CA 92234
888-999-1995

Aqua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Formerly Spa Resort Casino
140 North indian casino Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262-6414
Toll-Free: (800) 258-2946
Phone: (760) 323-5865

Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage
32-250 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270-2704
Phone: (760) 321-2000
Toll-Free: 888-999-1995

Augustine Casino
84-001 Avenue 54 at Van Buren
3 Miles East of PGA
West Coachella, California 92236
888-PLAY2WIN
760-391-9500

Cahuilla Casino
52702 Highway 371
Anza, California 92539
(909) 763-1200

Casino Morongo
9500 Seminole Dr
Cabazon, CA 92230

Fantasy Springs Casino
84-245 Indio Springs Parkway
Indio, California 92203-3499
(800) 827-2946
(760) 342-5000

Morongo Casino Resort Spa
49750 Seminole Drive
Cabazon, California 92230-2200
(800) 252-4499
(909) 849-3080

Morongo Travel Center
49020 Seminole Drive
Cabazon, CA 92230
(909) 849-2895

Pechanga Resort & Casino
45000 Pala Road
Temecula, California 92592-5810
(877) 7112-WIN
(909) 693-1819

Soboba Casino
23333 Soboba Road
San Jacinto, California 92581
866-4 Soboba
951-665-1000

Spotlight 29 Casino
I-10 at Dillon Road
46-200 Harrison Place
Coachella, California, 92236
(760) 775-5566
(866) 377-6829

SACRAMENTO COUNTY

Sky River Casino
1 Sky River Way
Elk Grove, California 95758

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Chumash Casino Resort
3400 East Highway 246
Santa Ynez, California 93460-9405
(800) 728-9997
(805) 686-0855

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

Barstow Casino and Resort Project
I-15 off Lenwood Rd Exit
Barstow, CA 92311

Havasu Landing Resort & Casino
1 Main Street
Havasu Lake, California 92363
(800) 307-3610
(760) 858-4593

Tortoise Rock Casino
73829 Base Line Rd
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
(866) 377-6829

Yaamava' Resort Casino
Formerly San Manuel Casino
5797 North Victoria Avenue
Highland, California 92346-1763
(800) 359-2464
(909) 864-5050

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Barona Resort & Casino
1932 Wildcat Canyon Road
Lakeside, CA 92040
888) 722-7662
(619) 443-2300

Casino Pauma
777 Pauma Reservation Road
Pauma Valley, California 92061
(877) 687-2862
(760) 742-2177

Golden Acorn Casino
1800 Golden Acorn Way
Campo, CA 91906
(619) 938-6000

Harrah's Resort Southern California
777 Harrah's Rincon Way
Valley Center, CA 92082
(877) 777-2457
(760) 751-3100

Jamul Casino
14145 Campo Road
Jamul, CA 91935
619-315-2250

La Jolla Trading Post & Casino
22003 Highway 76
Pauma Valley, CA 92061
760-742-0460

Pala Casino Spa Resort
11154 Highway 76
Pala, California 92059
(877) WINPALA
(877) 946-7252
(760) 510-5100

Santa Ysabel Resort and Casino (Closed)
25575 Highway 79
PO Box 600
Santa Ysabel, California 92070
760-787-0909

Sycuan Casino
5485 Casino Way
El Cajon, California 92019-1810
(800) 2-SYCUAN
(800) 279-2826
(619) 445-6002

Valley View Casino
16300 Nyemii Pass Road
Valley Center, California 92082
(760) 291-5500

Viejas Casino
5000 Willows Road
Alpine, California 91901
(619) 445-5400

SHASTA COUNTY

Pit River Casino
20265 Tamarack Avenue
Burney, California 96013-4064
888-245-2992
530-335-2334

Win-River Casino
2100 Redding Rancheria Road
Redding, California 96001-5530
(800) 280-UWIN (8946)
(530) 243-3377

SISKIYOU COUNTY

Rain Rock Casino
Interstate 5
Yreka, CA

SONOMA COUNTY

Cloverdale Rancheria Destination Resort & Casino Project
Highway 101
Cloverdale, CA

Graton Resort & Casino
Wilfred Avenue and Stony Point Road
Rohnert Park, California 95441

River Rock Casino
3250 Highway 128 East
Geyserville, California 95441
(707) 857-2777
(877) 883-7777

Shiloh Resort & Casino Project
222 East Shiloh Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95402

TEHAMA COUNTY

Rolling Hills Casino
2655 Barham Avenue
Corning, California 96021
888-331-6400
530-528-3500

TULARE COUNTY

Eagle Mountain Casino
681 South Tule Road
Porterville, California 93258
(800) 903-3353
(559) 788-6220

TUOLUMNE COUNTY

Black Oak Casino
19400 Tuolumne Road North
Tuolumne, California 95379-9724
(877) 747-8777
(209) 928-9300

Chicken Ranch Casino
16929 Chicken Ranch Road
Jamestown, California 95327-9779
(800) 75-BINGO
(209) 984-3000

YOLO COUNTY

Cache Creek Casino
14455 Highway 16
Brooks, California 95606-0065
(888) 77-CACHE

YUBA COUNTY

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Fire Mountain
3317 Forty Mile Road
Wheatland, California

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News Articles

California voters still oppose sports betting initiatives

November 30, 2023

After California voters rejected two sports betting ballot measures last year, a new poll finds voter opposition will continue against any new sports betting initiatives next year.

A new poll conducted by FM3 Research show very little change in voter sports betting preferences since a year ago. The total opposition today is 63%-28%. That is a 2% decline since last year, and show that sports betting opposition has remained consistently strong.

PollNov 2022Nov 2023Change
Stongly Support
Somewhat Support
13%
17%
13%
15%
0
+2%
Undecided7%7%0
Strongly Oppose
Somewhat Oppose
49%
16%
46%
17%
-3%
+1%

California tribes are aware of similar voter data, and do not intend to introduce new sports initiatives for 2024. Two initiatives introduced last month were immediately rejected by the major gaming tribes in the state. The iniatives have passed the comment period and are now heading towards signature gathering. Success is unlikey and may add to voter fatigue.

FM3 Research is a California-based company that has conducted public polling research since 1981.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

California Tribes reject new sports betting proposal

November 21, 2023

Last month the first sports betting initiatives for the 2024 election were filed with the California Attorney General's Office. One filing proposed a tribal framework to exclusively operate all California sports betting. The other filing would amend the state constitution and give the state legislature the power to add sports betting to the existing gaming compacts of California tribes. See news article.

Last Thursday the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) announced its strong opposition to the initiatives. CNIGA is the trade association for California Indian casino operators. The group represents 52 tribes.

CNIGA issued a statement that included:

"The entire effort surrounding these initiatives was handled abhorrently by the initiative sponsors. It is hard not to be offended when listening to these individuals speak. This is another example of outside influences trying to divide and conquer Indian tribes. We will not let history repeat itself."

- James Siva, Chairman CNIGA

Chairman Siva attacked the initiative authors, Kasey Thompson and Reeve Collins, for not consulting with the tribes prior to filing. California voters rejected two sports betting measures in the 2022 election. Many tribes feel there remains too much voter fatigue for another ballot attempt in 2024. The tribal consensus is to wait until the 2026 midterm election.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

2024 Tribal Sports Betting Proposals Filed in California

October 29, 2023

The first two California sports betting proposals have been filed for the 2024 election. The initiatives were filed yesterday with the California Attorney General's Office.

  • One filing proposes a tribal framework for all California onsite and online sports betting.

  • The second filing would amend the state constitution to allow the state legislature the right to grant exclusive sports betting rights to California tribes by amending the tribal gaming compacts.

Three weeks ago, the Pala Band of Mission Indians were reportedly preparing to introduce an online sports betting initiative for next year's election. However, no tribe is listed in the 40-page filing documents, and Pala's involvement is a mystery.

The filing paperwork is signed by Ryan Tyler Waltz, and all media and public inquiries are directed to Reeve Collin, the CEO and co-founder of Pala Interactive. The Pala Tribe sold Pala Interactive, an online casino platform, to Boyd Gaming in 2022.

No other information regarding these initative filings or the supporting organization(s) have been disclosed.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

California sports betting: What's next?

November 20, 2022

The two California sports betting propositions (26, 27) on last week's ballot both went down in overwhelming defeats. Prop 26, which proposed sports betting inside tribal casinos, was opposed by 69% of voters. Prop 27, which proposed online sports betting, was opposed by 83% of voters.

Professor David McCuan, the chairman of the political science department at Sonoma State University, explained the result this way:

"Anytime voters face two measures at odds with each other, they tend to reject both.

"Whenever we have dueling ballot measures, and the competitors have an arsenal of dollars ... the competitors will go nuclear. And in a nuclear war everybody loses. The most powerful money in California politics is on the 'No' side of ballot measures."

- David McCuan, Professor

Although Prop 25 was defeated, California tribes still retain exclusive gambling rights in the state.

So, what will come next?

California is the most populous state in our nation, and gambling is a multibillion-dollar market. The sports betting segment is too large to simply walk away from.

"The tribes can wait forever. They don't need sports betting. California doesn't need sports betting," says Victor Rocha, Conference Chair at National Indian Gaming Association.

There are two ways either sports betting group can pursue another shot:

  1. New Ballot Proposition (2024)
    It is common in California to have defeated propositions return in a new election. An initiative for tighter regulations at dialysis clinics has been defeated in each of the last three elections.

  2. . State Legislature Action
    The California legislature could pass a law allowing sports betting according to I. Nelson Rose, a gambling law expert at Whittier Law School. The legislature could also pass a constitutional amendment that would appear on the ballot for voter approval.

A spokesman for the Prop. 27 online gaming companies released a statement after the election that indicated supporters are not walking away from California.

"Dozens of states and countless local governments are benefitting from the significant tax revenue that online sports betting provides, and as California faces tax revenue declines and uncertain economic headwinds, online sports betting can provide substantial solutions to fill future budget gaps."

Some tribal leaders have also indicated another try in the future.

"As tribes, we will analyze these results, and collectively have discussions about what the future of sports wagering might look like in California," said Mark Macarro, tribal chairman of the Pechanga Band of Indians

"Our perspective continues to be that whatever proposal might emerge from tribes, it has got to be one that will be supported by the voters," said Jacob Mejia, VP of public affairs for the Pechanga Band of Indians.

Although nothing is known for certain about the future of sports betting in California, it seems a certainty the issue is not going away. It will return.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

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California Prop 26 v Prop 27 Ballot Battle: Most Expensive in US History!

September 22, 2022

The stakes are high in California for two sports betting propositions on the Nov. 8 election ballot. Supporters and opposers of Prop 26 and Prop 27 have already spent $500 million on TV ads to influence voters, making this most expensive ballot initiative in U.S. history.

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Game on: the dueling sports betting measures Californians will soon vote on
Courtesy of CBS 8 San Diego, Sep 8, 2022 . Available from YouTube

So, what are the differences between the two propositions?

SUMMARY

Prop 26: "California Sports Wagering Regulation and Unlawful Gambling Enforcement Act"

Retail sports betting would be authorized inside all California Indian casinos and four horse tracks (Del Mar, Golden Gate Fields, Los Alamitos, and Santa Anita).

Tribal casinos will also be allowed to add craos and roulette games.

California will receive a 10% tax on net revenues from sports betting. The funds will be deposited into a new California Sports Wagering Fund (CSWF) for allocation to K-12 schools and community colleges and state regulatory costs. Remaining monies would go to gambling addiction and mental health programs.

Promoters include Indians, Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and Wilton Rancheria. California has 79 tribes operating 66 casinos in 28 counties.

Prop 27: "California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support Act"

Online sports betting would be licensed to sportsbook websites and mobile apps.

Five-year licenses would cost gambling companies $100 million. Subsequent 5-year renewals would cost $10 million. Tribes would pay $10 million for a license and $1 million for renewals.

California will receive a 10% tax on net revenues from sports betting. The funds will be deposited into a new California Online Sports Betting Trust Fund (COSBTF) to cover state regulatory costs with 85% of the remainder allocated to homelessness and gambling addiction programs. The 15% balance would be allocated to tribes without online sports betting revenues. These tribes could apply the funds to health, education and economic development.

Promoters include FanDuel, DraftKings, WynnBET, Bally's,, BetMGM, Fanatics Betting, and Penn National.

If Both Pass: If Prop 26 and 27 are both approved by voters, the final outcome will be determined by the courts. The reason is Prop 26 includes a five-year ban on online sports betting.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

California Sports Betting Ballot Measures: State of the War!

July 16, 2022

California voters will decide in November whether to approve either of two ballot proposals authorizing a constitutional amendment to legalize sports betting. Voters will choose either retail or online sports betting, both or neither.

The California Democratic Party announced its position on the two sports betting initiatives last Sunday. The Democratic Party opposes online sports betting (Prop 27 ) and will remain neutral on retail sports betting (Prop 26).

RETAIL SPORTS BETTING
PROPOSITION 26
Title: "California Sports Wagering Regulation and Unlawful Gambling Enforcement Act"

Provisions:

  • Sports betting would be allowed at all California tribal casinos and four horse tracks (Del Mar, Golden Gate Fields, Los Alamitos, and Santa Anita). Card clubs are excluded.

  • Betting on in-state college sports teams is prohibited.

  • All sports betting would be taxed 10% on revenues.

  • All tribal casinos will be allowed to add roulette, craps and other dice games.

  • Online sports betting will be banned for at least five years.

Promoters:

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Rincon Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and Wilton Rancheria (Sky River Casino).

Supporters:

Most California tribes, California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), and Dolores Huerta, a labor and civil rights activist. California Democratic Party is "neutral" (July 11)

Opposition:

Card rooms

ONLINE SPORTS BETTING
PROPOSITION 27
Title: "California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support Act"

Provisions:

  • Sports betting would be allowed using mobile apps and online websites.

  • 85% of taxes will be allocated to the homelessness crises in California

Promoters:

DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Bally's Interactive, Fanatics Betting & Gaming, Penn National Gaming and WynnBET

Supporters:

Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians, the Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians and the Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe

Opposition:

California Democratic Party (July 10)

California Teachers Association (May 24)

Veterans (March 30) - includes National Veterans Foundation, the Marine Corps Veterans Association and the Association of the United States Army groups in Northern and Southern California

If Both Proposition 26 and 27 Pass

If both propositions pass in November, tribal groups would likely challenge Prop 27 in court based on the Prop 26 five-year ban of online sports betting.

Back    Full Page > California Casinos | Updates 2024

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Second California Sports Betting Measure Qualifies for November Ballot

May 12, 2022

A mobile sports betting measure received enough signatures last week to qualify as a choice on California's November ballot. The measure titled "Californians for Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support" is promoted by national sports betting operators. The group announced it has submitted 1.6 million petition signatures to the Secretary of State Office. A minimum of 997,139 signatures is needed to qualify for the ballot.

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Game on | California voters to decide whether to legalize sports betting - Courtesy of CBS 8 San Diego, May 5, 2022. Available from YouTube

The key campaign supporters are FanDuel, DraftKings and BetMGM, which contributed $16-plus million each, and Bally's, Barstool, WynnBet & Fanatics, which contributed $12-plus million each.

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Update: California sports betting battle on Nov ballot

April 23, 2022

California voters will decide whether to legalize sports betting and who will control it in this year's November 8 election.

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High stakes battle over legalizing CA sports gambling on Nov. ballot - Courtesy of KESQ News Channel 3, Apr 14, 2022. Available from YouTube

Although most of the sports betting initiatives are still seeking signatures to qualify for the ballot, the November battle currently appears to be a decision between in-person betting at casinos or online betting from anywhere in the state. It is possible both measures will pass and litigation will determine the final overlapping issues.

California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative (2022)
This measure is currently the only qualified ballot initiative for the November ballot. The measure is supported by 40 California tribes. If passed, it will legalize sports betting at California Indian gaming casinos and four California racetracks. It will also legalize roulette and dice games at tribal casinos.

California Solutions to Homeless and Mental Health Support Act
This ballot petition is led by Draft Kings and Fan Duel. If it completes its qualification for the ballot and passes, the measure will allow online sports betting and taxes would support homeless and mental health programs. A ten percent tax would be paid on all sports betting. Initial taxes would cover state regulatory costs and 85% of the remainder would go to homelessness programs.

Voter Poll
California voters do not show decisive support for the legalization of sports betting according to a recent Berkley IGS Poll. Only 45 percent favor legalization and 33 percent oppose it. The remaining 22 percent are undecided.

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CNIGA supports latest mobile sports betting measure for 2022 ballot

February 24, 2022

The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) announced support last week for the latest California sports betting initiative seeking signatures for the 2022 ballot. The measure titled "Age-Verified Tribal Online and In-Person Sports Wagering Regulatory Act" would give California tribes the exclusive rights to operate sports betting at both tribal casinos and online statewide.

Age-Verified Tribal Online and In-Person Sports Wagering Regulatory Act
This latest initiative is backed by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (Yaamava' Resort Casino), Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians (Harrah's Resort Southern California), the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (Graton Resort & Casino), and Wilton Rancheria (Sky River Casino).

California Sports Wagering Regulation and Unlawful Gambling Enforcement Act
The CNIGA also supports this measure to authorize in-person sports betting at tribal casinos and four racetracks exclusively. The measure is already qualified for the Nov. 8th ballot.

Commercial Sports Betting Initiatives
Two other measures have also qualified for the November ballot. One would allow national sportsbook operators, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, to partner with tribal casinos for online sports betting. The other would allow online and in-person sports betting at major cardroom operators.

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San Manuel-backed sports betting initiative cleared to gather signatures

January 22, 2022

A sports betting initiative backed by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and three other tribes has been cleared by the California Secretary of State to begin collecting signatures for the November ballot. The initiative requires petition signatures from 997,139 registered voters by June 30, 2022.

This sports betting initiative is backed by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (Yaamava' Resort Casino), Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians (Harrah's Resort Southern California), the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (Graton Resort & Casino), and Wilton Rancheria (Sky River Casino).

SUMMARY

  • California tribes will have exclusive rights to operate sports betting inside tribal casinos and online statewide.

  • 10% of gross gaming revenue will be paid to the state's Homelessness and Mental Health Fund.

  • 10% of gross gaming revenue will be paid to the Tribal Sports Wagering Revenue Sharing Fund.

FOURTH PROPOSAL
This initiative is the fourth proposal for legalizing sports betting in California. The other three proposals are:

  1. Sports betting will only be in-person at tribal casinos and four racetracks. This measure titled "California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative" has qualified for Nov. 8th ballot. Details

  2. Major cardroom operators would operate online and in-person sports betting and add new card and tile games.

  3. National sportsbook operators, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, would partner with tribal casinos for online betting.

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California sports betting initiative qualifies for Nov 8, 2022 ballot

September 7, 2021

A ballot measure titled "California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative" has qualified for the election ballot on Nov. 8, 2022. If passed by voters, the measure will amend the state constitution and existing laws with the following changes:

  1. Sports betting would become legal at all California Indian gaming casinos four racetracks (Golden Gate Fields, Santa Anita, Los Alamitos and Del Mar). Bets could be placed on all professional, college or amateur sporting events. The minimum betting age would be 21.

  2. The state would receive a 10% tax from sports betting profits. These tax revenues would be allocated with 15% going to the California Department of Health, 15% to the Bureau of Gambling Control, and 70% to the General Fund.

  3. Roulette, craps and other dice games would be legal at tribal casinos after amendments to the tribal-state gaming compacts

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California Gov. Newsom signs gaming compacts with five tribes

August 26, 2021

This month Gov. Newsom signed 25-year gaming compacts with six tribes. Each compact must now be ratified by the state legislature and approved by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The compacts were signed August 10, 2021.

Each of the six tribes are recognized by the federal government and qualified to own a casino under terms of the U.S. Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. That federal act can authorize Class II gaming on tribal land without state approval. A gaming compact with the state grants the tribes Class III gaming in exchange for payments from a share of revenues.

Here are the six California tribes with new gaming compacts:

Cahto Indian Tribe of the Laytonville Rancheria
Red Fox Casino
200 Cahto Drive
Laytonville, California 95454
(888) 4-REDFOX

This 25-year compact with the Cahto Indian Tribe was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 1,200 gaming devices at up to three gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: Cahto Tribe Compact August 2021.

Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians
4054 Willows Road
Alpine, CA 91901

This 25-year compact with the Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 1,200 gaming devices at up to two gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: EBKI Compact August 2021.

Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino
711 Lucky Lane
Coarsegold, California 93614
866-7-WIN-WIN

This 25-year compact with the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 3,500 gaming devices at up to two gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: PRCI Compact August 2021.

Resighini Rancheria
156 Klamath Beach Rd
Klamath, CA 95548

This 25-year compact with the Resighini Rancheria was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 1,200 gaming devices at up two gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: Resighini Rancheria Compact August 2021.

Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians
Sherwood Valley Casino
100 Kawi Place
Willits, California 95490-4674

This 25-year compact with the Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 1,200 gaming devices at up to three gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: Sherwood Valley Rancheria Compact August 2021.

Table Mountain Rancheria
Table Mountain Casino
8184 Table Mountain Road
Friant, California 93626
800-541-3637

This 25-year compact with the Table Mountain Rancheria was signed August 10, 2021 by Gov. Newsom. It authorizes Class III gaming with up to 3,000 gaming devices at up to three gambling facilities on the tribe's property. Read the compact: Table Mountain Rancheria Compact August 2021.

California tribal gaming pacts also specify a percentage of gambling revenues to be paid quarterly to the state. This includes payments into a Revenue Sharing Trust Fund, which is distributed to non-gaming tribes and limited-gaming tribes in California.

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California voters will decide sports betting measure in Nov 2022

June 9, 2021

An 18-tribe coalition has successfully submitted enough qualified voter signatures to add a sports betting referendum to the California election ballot in Nov 2022. The announcement was made last month by the California Secretary of State.

If passed by voters, the measure will authorize sports betting inside all Indian gaming casinos across the state. The measure will also give Indian casinos the exclusive rights to craps and roulette. No internet betting will be allowed, and all card clubs are excluded.

Anyone 21 of older will be able to place a sports wager. Sports bets will also be allowed at four racetracks: Golden Gate Fields, Santa Anita, Los Alamitos and Del Mar.

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New California Indian casinos possible after federal court ruling

April 11, 2021

A federal judge ruled last week that California is violating tribal sovereignties when renegotiating gaming compacts by demanding compliance with nongaming policies that exceed state jurisdiction. The ruling could lead to future compacts authorizing new Indian gaming casinos on off-reservation lands.

The case was brought in 2019 by five California tribes trying to renegotiate their gaming agreements with the state. U.S. District Judge Anthony Ishii of Fresno said state negotiators "crossed the line" by demanding tribal acceptance of California state policies in child support, spousal support, discrimination, injury cases and construction projects.

The judge said the state demands were outside the scope of the U.S. Indian Gaming regulatory Act.

"By limiting the proper topics for compact negotiations to those that bear a direct relationship to the operation of gaming activities, Congress intended to prevent compacts from being used as subterfuge for imposing State jurisdiction on tribes concerning issues unrelated to gaming."

- U.S. District Judge Anthony Ishii

However, Judge Ishii said California can still negotiate the issues by offering "meaningful concessions" to the tribes. A lawyer for the tribes, Lester Marston, said these concessions could include state approvals for off-reservation Indian casinos.

The ruling applies to nearly 70 tribes currently or soon to be in compact renegotiations with the state.

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California Tribes gather enough signatures to put sports betting on 2022 ballot

December 24, 2020

California tribes through the Coalition to Authorize Sports Wagering have submitted 1.4 million signatures to the state to place a sports betting measure on the Nov. 8, 2022 ballot.

A total of 997,139 signatures must be verified to qualify. Counties will verify the signatures and report their totals by March 9, 2021.

The ballot measure would allow sports wagering at tribal casinos and racetracks and also expand casino gaming with roulette, craps and other dice games.

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California Indian Casinos remain open during COVID-19 stay-at-home order

December 18, 2020

Californians are under a 3 week stay-at-home order to fight the surging number of COVID-19 cases that is consuming an alarming amount of hospital ICU capacity. The state has shut down all gatherings, indoor and outdoor restaurant dining, bars, indoor church services and other restrictions. However, California Indian casinos remain open.

The reason the tribal casinos can stay open is due to the sovereignty of Native American tribes whose casinos are built on reservation land. This exempts the casinos from state jurisdiction and this stay-at-home order.

Last March all the California Indian casinos shut down for the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The casino closures were soley voluntary and not government mandated.

When the shutdowns ended in June new safety measures and cleaning procedures were in place. Casinos reopened with temperature scanning, smoke-free rules, upgraded HVAC, more game spacing, limited food service, masks, social distancing, expanded cleaning crews and other enhanced measures.

San Manuel Casino issued a statement last week announcing it will continue to stay open. The statement said:

"From day one of the pandemic, we have made health and safety our top focus and we have persistently adhered to the most rigorous of safety standard. The San Manuel Business Committee and our executive leadership are actively monitoring the landscape and evaluating guidance from our retained medical experts and county public health officials."

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California sports betting bill is dead till 2022

July 2, 2020

A bill to place sports betting on the November 2020 ballot died in the state senate last week when its sponsor, Sen. Bill Dodd, unexpectantly removed it from consideration citing the lack of time needed to negotiate the details with California tribes. The bill was nearly ready for debate and was on the fast track for passage.

"Given the deadlines for getting a measure on the November ballot and the impact of COVID-19 on the public's ability to weigh in, we were not able to get the bill across the finish line this year."

California State Senator Bill Dodd

California tribes oppose the provision in the bill to allow sports betting inside California card rooms.

"While we appreciate that the state was trying to find additional revenues during this time, this bill was simply bad policy. It unjustly rewards the commercial, for-profit gaming industry for their practice of conducting Nevada-style games in flagrant violation of California law. This bill would have also threatened brick-and-mortar establishments by legalizing online gaming, which would reward out-of-state commercial business entities and raise regulatory challenges."

James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association

Senator Dodd promises to continue his efforts and and reintroduce the bill in 2022. Sports betting requires a constitutional amendment approved by voters and the next election will be in 2022.

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California tribes reopened 12 casinos in May 2020

June 1, 2020

The first casino to reopen in California following the shutdowns for COVID-19 was Win-River Resort & Casino in Redding. The Redding Rancheria reopened Win-River Casino on May15th

That was followed the next week by the openings of two Sacrament-area casinos, Hard Rock Casino Sacramento and Rolling Hills Casino and Resort. Seven Southern California casinos reopened before the end of May.

The California casinos that reopened in May 2020 are listed here by date:

May 15 Win-River Casino
May 20 Sycuan Casino Resort
May 21 Hard Rock Casino Sacramento
May 21 Rolling Hills Casino and Resort
May 21 Jamul Casino
May 22 Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and Casino Morongo
May 22 Harrah's Resort Southern California
May 22 Valley View Casino & Hotel
May 24 Bear River Casino
May 27 Soboba Casino Resort
May 27 Cahuilla Casino Hotel
May 27 Barona Resort & Casino

Seven more casinos have announced their reopening dates for early June. More announcements are expected soon.

June 1 Pechanga Resort Casino
June 1 Chukchansi Gold Casino
June 8 Cache Creek Casino Resort
June 8 Red Hawk Casino
June 8 Thunder Valley Casino
June 8 Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort
June 10 Chumash Casino Resort

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California tribes seek 2020 ballot measure for sports betting

November 19, 2019

A coalition of 18 California tribes led by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians proposed a ballot initiative last week to legalize sports betting in California. Papers have been filed with the state attorney general seeking a signature drive to qualify as a ballot measure in the November 2020 election. Nearly one million signatures are needed from registered voters to qualify for the ballot.

If passed by voters next year, the state constitution would be amended to allow sports betting at California Indian casinos and state-licensed racetracks. Card clubs are excluded. Wagering would be allowed on professional and college sports, but not on high school sports or some amateur sports.

Mark Macarro, Pechanga Tribal Chairman, said in a statement:

"Californians should have the choice to participate in sports wagering at highly regulated, safe and experienced gaming locations. We are very proud to see tribes from across California come together for this effort, which represents an incremental but important step toward giving Californians the freedom to participate in this new activity in a responsible manner."

Under this measure the state would receive a 10% tax on gross revenues from all sports betting operations.

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Three California Tribes will appeal US District Court decision

Three California tribes will appeal last week's decision of a US District Court judge to dismiss their case to stop state-licensed cardrooms from hosting blackjack, baccarat and other house-backed games.

The tribes claim these games are exclusive to California Indian casino per the state constitution, state laws and the state-tribe gaming compacts.

District Judge John A. Mendez dismissed the lawsuit because he disagreed that state-tribal compacts grant California tribes the exclusive right to host these games.

The lawsuit was filed by the these three tribes:

  • Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
    Owners of the Sycuan Casino in San Diego County

  • Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians
    Owners of the Viejas Casino in San Diego County

  • ocha Dehe Wintun Nation
    Owners of the Cache Creek Casino in Northern California

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Calif Tribes Lose Lawsuit for Card Game Exclusivity

June 19, 2019

In January this year three California tribes filed a lawsuit in federal court against the State of California and Governor Newsom to stop state-licensed cardrooms from playing blackjack, baccarat and other house-banked games.

The tribes asserted these games were an illegal violation of the tribes' exclusive rights to these games as granted by their state-tribal gaming compacts, state laws and the California constitution.

Yesterday Judge John A. Mendez of the United States District Court dismissed the case stating the state-tribal compacts do not grant an exclusive right for these games. When the 1999 gaming compacts, which guaranteed exclusivity, were renegotiated in 2015-2016 the same guarantee was not extended.

The ruling resulted in this immediate press release today by the California Gaming Association

United States District Court's Order to Dismiss California Tribes' Lawsuit for Breach of the Tribal-State Compacts Against the State and Governor Newsom

NEWS PROVIDED BY California Gaming Association
Jun 19, 2019, 17:54 ET

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 19, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Yesterday, the United States District Court dismissed a lawsuit filed by three California Tribes against the State of California and Governor Newsom. The suit sought to force the State to shut down lawful cardroom games like blackjack and baccarat claiming tribal exclusivity of them, but in its ruling, the Court ruled that the tribes' compacts did not give them the exclusive rights to these games in California. Previously, four California Court of Appeal decisions have ruled that these cardrooms may operate non banked versions of these games, and for decades, cardrooms have offered these games with specific approval of the Attorney General without harm to or complaint by the public

California Gaming Association President Kyle Kirkland issued the following statement:

"We are pleased that the Court dismissed this lawsuit by these California tribes against the State of California over alleged violations of their tribal gaming compacts. The Federal Court ruled that the compacts do not give the tribes exclusivity over gaming in California. This litigation was an attempt to eliminate competition from local cardrooms, threatening thousands of California families and dozens of communities statewide.

We will continue to oppose specious tribal attacks on our industry, employees and communities. Tens of thousands of Californians count on cardroom living wage jobs to support their families, and dozens of communities rely on the tax revenue we generate to support vital public services. We will not stand by quietly while wealthy tribes try to misuse court resources to hurt our employees, their families and our communities."

The tribes have claimed that the Court ruled on procedural grounds and did not address exclusivity. In fact, the Court ruled that the tribal compacts did not provide exclusivity to these games. In its ruling, the Court made clear that the tribes' interpretation of their compact rights was flawed. Here are key statements in the Court's order to dismiss (Case 2:19-cv-00025-JAM-AC):

  • Plaintiffs (Tribes) argue the most-recently entered Compacts guarantee the same right of exclusivity that was bargained for in the 1999 agreements. The Court disagrees. The Compacts, although recognizing the right of exclusivity provided by the California Constitution, do not include any express terms regarding Defendants' obligation to preserve that right. In fact, the Compacts contemplate the abrogation of that right, providing the Tribes limited recourse in the event their rights of exclusivity lapse. (Page 8, Lines 12-20)

  • Plaintiffs' (Tribes) claim requires a showing that the Compacts created an obligation by the State to adopt Plaintiffs' definition of "banking and percentage card games." Nothing in the Compacts suggest such an obligation. In fact, Plaintiffs' own complaint undermines the notion that the terms of the Compacts presupposed how Defendants would interpret and enforce state law. (Page 11, Lines 22-28)

  • Plaintiffs' (Tribes) claim requires a showing that the Compacts created an obligation by the State to adopt Plaintiffs' (Tribes) definition of "banking and percentage card games." Nothing in the Compacts suggest such an obligation. (Page 11, Lines 22-25)

  • Devoid of any indication that the Compacts created these obligations, Plaintiffs' (Tribes) allegations of bad faith fall short. (Page 12, Lines 8-9)

For more information about the California Gaming Association, go to www.calgaming.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Anna Williamson
Mobile: (843) 408-7125

SOURCE California Gaming Association

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California Tribes Sue State over Illegal Games in Cardrooms

January 4, 2019

Three California tribes have filed a lawsuit in federal court against the State of California for allowing some state-licensed cardrooms to illegally offer blackjack, baccarat and other house-banked games prohibited by law.

In a statement from Anthony Roberts, Yocha Dehe Tribal Chairman, he said "State law, the Constitution and our compacts are all very clear about our exclusive right to operate house-banked, casino-style card game".

The California Constitution prohibited all casino gambling until it was amended in 2000 following voter approval of Proposition 1A "Gambling on Tribal Lands Amendment." The amendment allows casino games at Indian casinos where players bet against the house rather than against each other. It requires the tribes have a compact with the state a pay the state a percentage of their revenues.

John Christman, Tribal Chairman of the Viejas Band, added, "Since 2012, we have sought resolution through the agencies and individuals responsible for enforcing these laws and preventing illegal gambling activity in California. Going to court is regrettably our last recourse, only because of the State's continued inaction against such blatant illegal activity. If California enforced its current laws, we would not have filed this lawsuit."

The three tribes that filled the lawsuit are the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, who owns the Cache Creek Casino in Northern California, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, who owns the Viejas Casino in San Diego County and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, owners of the Sycuan Casino in San Diego County.

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Online Poker In California UPDATE

December 16, 2018

Currently there is legal online poker in Nevada, New Jersey, and Delaware. The population of California is close to 40 million people. A population that is larger than the three states combined. It is believed that if online poker could be legalized in California, it should be viable based on the state's population.

However, there are issues that prevent the legalization of online poker in California from happening.

There is a large gaming industry in California. The horse racing industry, card rooms, and tribal owned casinos would have to be in support of legislation that would approve online poker.

Under California state law, any legislative rule that has a tax implication must be approved by voters at a two-thirds majority vote.

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California Sports Betting Initiative Approved for Signature Drive

August 23, 2018

An initiative that was filed by a citizen has been approved by the California attorney general office that would legalize sports betting. The initiative could be placed on the 2020 ballot if 600,000 signatures can be collected. The push for the legalization of sports betting in California is being headed by a lobbyist with a card room industry background. The signatures must be collected by the start of next year to be allowed to be placed on the next ballot for voters to decide.

If approved by voters, other types of gaming could be allowed as well in addition to sports betting. On tribal owned land Native Americans with federal recognition could operate craps and roulette. Licensed card rooms could operate sports betting and also other card games such as those found in Las Vegas. Sports betting could also take place on tribal land.

The initiative would make a constitutional amendment for California. Close to 100 locations could begin to offer Las Vegas style games around the state.

Opposition for the initiative is coming from the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians. The Native American tribe has been active in blocking efforts for the legalization of online poker. The tribe has been successful in this for over ten years.

In order to obtain the number of signatures needed to have the initiative placed on the ballot, signature drives will need to take place. This will require a large amount of resources and people to help manage the signature collection.

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California tribes say sports betting is their exclusive right under their Gaming Revenue Act of 2004

May 22, 2018

Th recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court allows for states to begin offering sports betting. The legalized game could be a pathway to also for card rooms, race tracks, and online casino websites to begin offering sports betting. However, there are many Native American tribes in California that are preparing to take the state to court over the new game.

There are 78 casinos in California that are owned by Native American tribes. Those 78 casinos are owned by 71 tribes in the state. Additional casinos are also being planned. 7 tribes have recently signed gaming compacts with the state.

In 2004 a law was proposed that would have allowed for a limited amount of games to be operated at card rooms and race tracks. Host cities would have the right to determine if a full gaming casino would be permitted under the proposed Gaming Revenue Act of 2004. However, it was strongly opposed by the Native American tribes. $33 million was invested by the tribes to prevent the law from passing. The vote was rejected at 76 to 24 percent.

In 1992 a federal statue was passed named PASPA. This prevented local and state governments from forming laws or compacts that would give gaming rights, sponsor or promote, operate, or award gaming licenses to a gaming to allow sports betting. Last week the decision was over turned. Now the future of tribes are concerned over the future of their casino industries.

In California $40 million is spent of illegal sports betting each year. The state is being proposed an amendment to the constitution that would help to earn at least half of that back in revenue to the state.

The tribes in California argue that they have exclusive gaming rights to sports betting since it is considered a game of chance. The exclusivity was part of the agreements made under their gaming compacts with the state. They consider it a violation of the law if a non-tribal owned venue was given a license to operate sports betting.

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CNIGA Statement on the U.S. Supreme Court Allowing for Sports Wagering

May 14, 2018

PRESS RELEASE
May 14, 2018, Sacramento, CA
CNIGA

CNIGA Chairman Steve Stallings Statement on the U.S. Supreme Court Allowing for Sports Wagering

Today the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) also known as the Bradley Act, which prohibited all but four states from allowing sports wagering.

Moving forward it will take an amendment to the California Constitution to permit any form of sports wagering. In doing so, we would advise the state to move slowly and cautiously and examine all angles as it relates to sports betting. As the state of California weighs the decision of whether to allow for the practice of sports wagering, we firmly ask that tribes have a place at the table in any and all discussions surrounding this issue. We also want to make very clear that California voters have, on numerous occasions, confirmed the exclusive right of California tribal governments to operate casino-style games. Legalization of sports betting should not become a back-door way to infringe upon that exclusivity. A strong, well-regulated gaming industry is of utmost importance to California's tribal governments and the public. Protecting the integrity of the gaming industry protects California and is our true North Star that guides all of our stances and decisions. The California Nations Indian Gaming Association is a non-profit association comprised of 35 federally recognized tribal governments dedicated to the protection of tribal sovereignty and the inherent right of tribes to have gaming on Indian lands.

Source: California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA)

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More News Headlines

2022

News Update: California sports betting battle on Nov ballot April 23, 2022 - California voters will decide whether to legalize sports betting and who will control it in this year's November 8 election. Although most of the ballot initiatives are still seeking signatures to qualify for ... Read more News CNIGA supports latest mobile sports betting measure for 2022 ballot February 24, 2022 - The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) announced support last week for the latest California sports betting initiative seeking signatures for the 2022 ballot. ... Read more News San Manuel-backed sports betting initiative cleared to gather signatures January 22, 2022 - A sports betting initiative backed by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and three other tribes has been cleared by the California Sec. of State to begin collecting signatures ... Read more News New Year 2022 Will See New States Add Sports Betting January 1, 2022 - Thirty three states have legalized sports betting since the Supreme Court removed the ban on May 14, 2018. Nine of these states legalized sports betting in 2021. Four more states will likely follow ... Read more

2021

News San Manuel changes name to Yaamava' Resort Casino September 26, 2021 - As San Manuel prepares to open its first onsite hotel soon plus a new event center in early 2022, the casino has changed its name to Yaamava' Resort Casino. "Yaamava" means "spring season" ... Read more News California sports betting initiative qualifies for Nov 8, 2022 ballot September 7, 2021 - A ballot measure titled "California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative" has qualified for the election ballot on Nov. 8, 2022. If passed by voters, the measure will amend ... Read more News California Gov. Newsom signs gaming compacts with six tribes August 26, 2021 - This month Gov. Newsom signed 25-year gaming compacts with five tribes. Each compact must now be ratified by the state legislature and approved by the U.S. Interior Department. ... Read more News California voters will decide sports betting measure in Nov 2022 June 9, 2021 - An 18-tribe coalition has successfully submitted enough qualified voter signatures to add a sports betting referendum to the California election ballot in Nov 2022. The announcement ... Read more News New California Indian casinos possible after federal court ruling April 11, 2021 - A federal judge ruled last week that California is violating tribal sovereignties when renegotiating gaming compacts by demanding compliance with nongaming policies that exceed state ... Read more News Tribes are devastated after one year of COVID-19 March 18, 2021 - As the Covid-19 pandemic began spreading across our nation last year, its impact became the most deadly in our tribal communities. Tribal economies also collapsed as casinos were shut down ... Read more

2020

News California Tribes gather enough signatures to put sports betting on 2022 ballot December 24, 2020 - California tribes through the Coalition to Authorize Sports Wagering have submitted 1.4 million signatures to the state to place a sports betting measure on the Nov. 8, 2022 ballot. ... Read more News California Indian Casinos remain open during COVID-19 stay-at-home order December 18, 2020 - Californians are under a 3 week stay-at-home order to fight the surging number of COVID-19 cases that is consuming an alarming amount of hospital ICU capacity. The state ... Read more News California sports betting bill is dead till 2022 July 2, 2020 - A bill to place sports betting on the November 2020 ballot died in the state senate last week when its sponsor, Sen. Bill Dodd, removed it from consideration. Dodd cited the lack of time needed to negotiate ... Read more News California tribes reopened 12 casinos in May 2020 June 1, 2020 - The first casino to reopen in California following the shutdowns for COVID-19 was Win-River Resort & Casino in Redding. That was followed by two Sacramento-area casinos and 7 Southern California ... Read more

2019

News California tribes seek 2020 ballot measure for sports betting November 19, 2019 - A coalition of 18 California tribes are seeking to place a sports betting measure on the Nov. 2020 ballot. It would authorize sports books at California Indian casinos and racetracks. ... Read more News Three California Tribes will appeal US District Court decision June 22, 2019 - Three California tribes will appeal their case against the State of California and Gov. Newsom to stop state-licensed cardrooms from hosting blackjack, baccarat and other house-backed games. ... Read more News Calif Tribes Lose Lawsuit for Card Game Exclusivity June 19, 2019 - A U.S. District Judge dismissed a lawsuitefiled by three California tribes against the state and the state's governor to stop state-licensed cardrooms from playing blackjack and other house-backed games. ... Read more California Casino News Archive ...

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