Stephen Stallings, the leader of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), has voiced his support for Assemblyman Adam Gray’s recent endeavor to legalize internet poker in California. Stallings stressed that CNIGA, established to safeguard tribal gaming interests, acknowledges the evolving nature of the gambling industry. Gamblers are seeking more contemporary alternatives beyond traditional slots and table games.
In response, CNIGA has crafted a framework for online gaming in California. These principles prioritize safeguarding consumers, shielding minors from gambling, and upholding tribal autonomy. Stallings contends that Assemblyman Gray’s legislation, AB 2863, aligns with these principles. He commended Gray for collaborating with tribes to assist them in keeping abreast of technological advancements. CNIGA affirmed their dedication to partnering with legislators to guarantee the enactment of impactful online poker regulations.
Earlier this week, the Pala Band of Mission Indians also pledged their support for the legislation, joining CNIGA in endorsing Assemblyman Gray’s initiatives.
Making internet poker lawful in California would yield numerous advantages for the state,” stated Chairman Smith of the Pala Band of Mission Indians. He emphasized the possibility of a more secure user experience with supervised internet gaming, employment opportunities generated by novel gaming offerings, and a substantial fresh income source. The Pala Band continues to advocate for the authorization of online poker in 2016.
This position differs from the unease experienced by some within the tribal gaming sector concerning the oversight of internet wagering in the US. Tribes with the most lucrative gaming establishments are reluctant to allow a regulated online market for profitable games such as poker and daily fantasy sports. They worry this could inadvertently clear the path for independent companies that might directly rival tribal casinos.
Nevertheless, for other tribes encountering diminishing profits, shrinking patron groups, and the genuine possibility of younger generations bypassing physical casinos entirely, any prospect of regulated internet gambling is an attractive savior.
AB 2863, the legislation under consideration, was presented on February 19th.
Included in the agreement is a stipulation prohibiting California’s racetracks from establishing their own internet poker platforms. However, they receive a favorable arrangement: a staggering 95% of the initial $60 million generated from online poker proceeds goes directly to them. The remaining 5% is allocated to the state’s coffers.