News - Tribes Plan to Put California Sports Betting on 2028 Ballot

In an effort to bring sports betting to California, state tribal leaders are targeting the November 2028 election with a plan to establish a tribal-led sports betting framework. At the recent NCLGS Summer Meeting, James Siva, Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, emphasized the focus on building a unified proposal. This approach follows the failure of competing initiatives in 2022 and aims to ensure a cohesive agreement that aligns with the tribal rights established under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). The goal is to create an online sports betting market governed by the tribes, ensuring fair negotiation and ratification of gaming compacts. By adopting a measured approach, tribal leaders hope to present a proposal with stronger chances of public approval. California currently lacks a regulated sportsbook market, resulting in potential tax revenue losses and competition from offshore betting and prediction markets. Prediction markets emerged as a primary concern during the NCLGS discussion, as these continue to expand across various states, possibly diverting potential revenue streams. The ongoing dialogue over the classification of these markets could significantly impact negotiations leading to the 2028 vote. Tribes aim to maintain their historical gaming exclusivity, navigating a rapidly evolving gambling landscape to secure renewed support from California's voters. If successful, approving a tribal-led sports betting measure could introduce significant new revenue streams, bolster consumer protections, and solidify the tribes' role in California's gaming sector.