In a recent ruling, California tribes saw a favorable outcome, leading some to speculate about the potential for shortcuts in legalizing sports betting in the state. Financial analyst Carlo Santarelli suggested that California could avoid ballot initiatives by amending current tribal compacts. However, veteran tribal gaming attorney Scott Crowell and other industry sources believe that any shortcuts for legalizing sports betting in California are slim to none.
The ruling in California was prompted by a similar ruling in Florida, where the Seminole Tribe maintains exclusivity over sports betting through 2051. Santarelli pointed out that the ruling in Florida could provide a blueprint for California and other states with tribal gaming. However, despite the speculation, it seems that California residents are still not in favor of legalizing sports betting. A recent vote in 2022 for Proposition 27, which would have legalized online sports betting, only received 18% of the vote.
With the next potential vote on sports betting not happening until 2026, state lawmakers are continuing to engage in discussions with tribal leaders to find a compromise. It appears that any shortcuts to legalizing sports betting in California are unlikely, and the state will have to navigate through the complex legal and political landscape to make any progress on this issue.
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