In a recent development, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ruling allowing tribal-state compacts to include statewide online gaming. While this decision won’t directly affect the timeline for California tribes pursuing sports betting, it does pave the way for smoother adoption. Let’s delve into the details:
The Background
In 2023, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that tribal-offered online wagering off reservations did not violate the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988. This decision came in response to a challenge by West Flagler Associates and the Bonita-Fort Myers Corp., who contested Florida’s grant of sports-betting exclusivity to the Seminole Tribe.
California’s Path Forward
Despite the favorable ruling, California tribes remain cautious. The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) acknowledges that while the decision eases the path for sports betting, it doesn’t necessarily expedite the process. Here’s what tribal leaders have to say:
- James Siva, Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, emphasizes that they won’t rush into new initiatives. Instead, they’ll continue their deliberate approach, ensuring careful planning and methodical progress. The timeline remains consistent, even with this significant development.
- Jason Giles, Executive Director of the IGA, dismisses the notion that California can immediately pursue sports betting without a constitutional change through voters. The tribes will continue to rely on public polling to guide their decisions.
The Road Ahead
While the recent actions are indeed a game changer for tribes, the exact timeline for California sports betting remains uncertain. Some speculate it could be 2026 or even later. As a new form of gaming under IGRA, sports betting revenue must primarily benefit tribal-government functions, such as healthcare.
