California bill proposes ban on online sweepstakes gaming
Avelino Valencia’s proposal is backed by the California Nations Indian Gaming Association.
US.- California assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) has proposed legislation to prohibit online sweepstakes games in the state. Assembly Bill (AB) 831 aims “to protect Californians from unregulated online gambling” by prohibiting sweepstakes games that use a dual currency model to mimic casino-style wagering.
The bill is co-sponsored by the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) and the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations (TASIN).
Valencia stated: “We cannot look the other way while these platforms exploit legal grey areas. These operations undermine the voter-approved framework that affirms Tribal governments’ sovereign right to conduct gaming in California. AB 831 strengthens that framework and ensures gaming in California remains fair and accountable.”
Yuhaaviatam Tribal Council of San Manuel chairwoman Lynn Valbuena added: “For over 25 years, Tribal governments like Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, have upheld the will of California voters by operating gaming with integrity. That commitment has allowed us to reinvest in our communities, boost local economies, and support essential public services on reservations and in partnerships across the state. Illegal online gaming now threatens this foundation—compromising voter-approved law and putting Californians at risk.”
Yuhaaviatam Tribal Council of San Manuel vice chairman Johnny Hernandez, Jr commented: “We support this legislation that will close dangerous loopholes and strengthen the integrity of California’s gaming system. We remain committed to defending a proven framework that protects the sovereignty of Tribal Nations and delivers real and lasting benefits to all Californians. Together, Tribal governments and the State of California will continue to address and take decisive action against illegal internet gaming in all its forms.”
CNIGA chairman James Siva said: “Tribal government gaming contributes nearly $25bn to California’s economy, sustains over 112,000 jobs, and funds critical community programs. Unregulated online sweepstakes threaten this voter-approved system by imitating casino gaming without oversight, accountability, or community investment. These illegal platforms erase the benefits of regulated gaming while exposing consumers to serious risks.”
Montana was the first US state to pass legislation explicitly banning online sweepstakes casinos. The new law will enter into effect on October 1. Connecticut has also passed legislation, and New York’s Senate Bill 5935 is heading to governor Kathy Hochul for approval after passing through the state Assembly.
