In the wake of past failed attempts, California could see yet another move toward legalizing gambling in 2024. Sources suggest that the Pala Band of Mission Indians is prepping to introduce an initiative for the upcoming ballot. This development caught several stakeholders off guard, including three tribes – Graton Rancheria, Pechanga, and San Manuel. Moreover, four significant U.S. operators, namely BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PENN Entertainment, stated they were in the dark about such plans.
Last year, California’s quest to allow wagering became a national headline due to the large amount spent on it. With an expenditure close to $450 million, it holds the record for the priciest ballot measure contest in U.S. annals. Sadly for the supporters, both propositions faced massive rejections. The one driven by California’s Native American tribes secured a mere 33% approval. On the other hand, a proposition championed by some of the nation’s leading gambling companies was declined by over 80% of voters.
Considering California’s stringent criteria for passing ballot initiatives, advocates for gambling might find the path challenging. Even the initial step of presenting it for voting demands intensive efforts. The proposal must first be registered with the attorney general’s department. This step is then followed by a month-long public review and the daunting task of collecting 874,641 signatures.
Last week, new rules got proposed for California cardrooms following new legislature, signed off by governor Gavin Newsom five months ago.