Press Release
For Immediate Release

Contact: James May
(916) 754-7540

CNIGA Statement from Chairman Steve Stallings on Sports Betting Constitutional Initiative

June 27, 2019

Among the top priorities for the California Nations Indian Gaming Association is that a well-regulated and safe gaming environment exists in the state of California. The proposed constitutional amendment, ACA 16, by Assemblymember Adam Gray (D-Merced), and SCA 6 by Sen. Bill Dodd (D-Napa) that would allow for sports betting in California should proceed with caution, especially in light of a multitude of issues the state is currently having with commercial gaming regulation.

In short, CNIGA does not support any expansion of gaming in California, including sports betting until the for-profit, commercial cardrooms stop their illegal practices, including constitutionally prohibited banked games. A legitimate discussion on sports betting could then proceed as long as tribal exclusivity is maintained.

We also insist that federally recognized tribes are included in all stakeholder meetings and hearings held on the issue and a thorough analysis of the social and economic effects of legalizing sports wagering be completed prior to final initiative language.

It is only with these elements that we would consider support for this kind of gaming expansion.

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