In California, Tribal operators hold exclusive rights over different gaming activities. In order for the state to legalize sports betting, the Tribes need to be consulted and any proposal needs to be greenlighted by them as well.

Back in October, Kasey Thompson and Reeve Collins introduced a proposal that sought to open the largest sports betting market in the United States, the one in California. Introduced on October 27, 2023, the Sports Wagering Regulation and Tribal Gaming Protection Act’s main purpose is “to regulate online and in-person sports wagering in California,” while at the same time, generating funding for Tribal communities and governmental services.

A few weeks after the Sports Wagering Regulation and Tribal Gaming Protection Act was proposed, it is now facing formal opposition from the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA). On Thursday this week, the Association revealed that 52 of its members voted against two sports betting proposals that were recently filed with the California Sectary of State’s office.

CNIGA explained that the voting comes after a meeting between its Executive Committee and supporters of the proposals. Known as the association of tribal groups in California, CNIGA was founded back in 1988. It currently represents the Tribal sector on industry matters and advocates for gaming rights on Indian lands.

“Today the 52 members of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association voted to oppose two sports wagering initiatives that were recently filed with the California Secretary of State’s office. The vote follows a meeting between the initiative proponents and the CNIGA Executive Committee,“

reads a statement released by CNIGA

The Association’s Opposition Is Irrevocable

James Siva, CNIGA’s chairman, criticized the two sports wagering proposals saying: “The entire effort surrounding these initiatives was handled abhorrently by the initiative sponsors.” He revealed that it was difficult for the Association’s members not to be offended when hearing how the supporters of the initiatives discussed their proposals.

“This is another example of outside influences trying to divide and conquer Indian tribes. We will not let history repeat itself.“

James Siva chairman of CNIGA

Siva highlighted that the Tribes in California have been involved in the gaming sector for more than 40 years. According to him, their involvement isn’t by coincidence or mistake but rather highlights the dedication of the Tribes to ensuring the well-being of their communities and members. “Tribal Leaders are the experts, and we will decide what is best for our people,” he added.

“Our opposition could not be more clear and is irrevocable,“

added Siva

CNIGA’s chairman urged the supporters of the proposals to drop the initiatives, reminding them of their promise to do so if they face opposition from the tribes. Finally, Siva reiterated that the Tribes officially oppose the sports wagering initiatives.

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FanDuel will highlight the importance of safer gambling through a series of initiatives, the company announced. The leading NA operator will also donate money to the National Council on Problem Gambling and other organizations to further support a healthier gambling ecosystem.

As announced, FanDuel will donate $100,000 to the NCPG, supporting its Agility Grants program. The program provides funding to nonprofits across the USA, helping them prevent problem gambling in regions without dedicated safer gambling services.

Keith Whyte, executive director of the NCPG, praised FanDuel’s commitment.

FanDuel’s commitment to supporting a spectrum of services from problem gambling prevention to responsible gambling education is a reflection of their dedication to building a safe and sustainable gambling ecosystem.

Keith Whyte, exec director, NCPG

FanDuel will also expand its support of the International Center for Responsible Gaming, funding problem gambling research in the United States. The ICBG hopes to better understand addictive tendencies in order to be able to better tackle them. Arthur Paikowsky, the center’s president, welcomed FanDuel’s backing.

FanDuel will also continue to work with various professional sports leagues, such as the NBA and the PGA Tour.

In addition to supporting various organizations, FanDuel will also leverage its ambassadors to promote responsible gambling. Craig Carton, one of the company’s RG ambassadors, is currently on a “Responsible Gaming College Tour.” Carton visits college campuses across the northeast, educating young adults on how to avoid gambling harm and will produce exclusive video material on the topic.

Seven-division boxing champion Amanda Serrano, another Fanduel RG ambassador, will share video content on her social media. Serrano and Carton will encourage customers to pick FanDuel because of its Play Well tools, which allow players to regulate their own behavior.

During Problem Gambling Awareness Month, it’s even more important to remind those who choose to wager of the tools and resources available to them to help stay in control of the way they play.

Amanda Serrano, RG ambassador, FanDuel

FanDuel’s Play Well suite includes a variety of tools. By using them, players can set deposit limits, wager limits, maximum wager size limits and time limits. In addition, players can use the Time Out option to take a break from betting.

Howe Promised FanDuel Will Remain Responsible

FanDuel’s chief executive officer, Amy Howe, addressed the new initiatives.

This March marks the 20th anniversary of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and we will once again use this as a moment to demonstrate how FanDuel aims to set the standard for what it means to be a responsible operator.

Amy Howe, CEO, FanDuel

Howe concluded that the collaborations with partners and ambassadors will help FanDuel continue to spread awareness and encourage players to play safely.

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