California tribes team up to protest anti-sweepstakes bill
Members of four California tribes have come together to protest the state’s anti-sweepstakes bill, Assembly Bill 831.
The tribal nations opposing AB831 include the Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, the Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians, the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, and Big Lagoon Rancheria.
If the bill is passed, online sweepstakes casinos would be banned throughout California. It is estimated that more than US$1 billion of existing economic activity generated by the industry will be eliminated, drastically hampering any new revenue sources that the state can tap into.
The tribes have also zeroed in on several areas where they believe the bill is unfair. First, economic disparity, arguing that the more geographically isolated tribes will struggle financially if the bill is passed.
Secondly, the nations assert that California’s tribes are not united on this bill, with more and more coming out against it. Finally, criminal penalties included in the bill violate federal law and are an encroachment on tribal sovereignty.
Social Gaming Leadership Alliance Executive Director and former Congressman Jeff Duncan believes an alternative solution is necessary. “What California lawmakers should focus on instead is creating proper regulation that supports online social games, creates new revenue sources for the state, and protects economic opportunities for all tribes,” he said.
On Monday, the bill passed its third reading with a vote of 36-0. It now sits in the Assembly.
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Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
