The California Gambling Control Commission and the Bureau of Gambling Control have published the 2025 Edition of “California Gambling Law, Regulations, and Resource Information“, offering a detailed and updated overview of the state’s gambling-related statutes, regulations, and guidelines. This annual publication serves as an essential resource for industry stakeholders, legal professionals, and regulators.

Key Features of the 2025 Edition

The resource consolidates relevant sections from multiple codes, including the California Business and Professions Code, Penal Code, Government Code, and Welfare and Institutions Code, as well as pertinent federal statutes. It addresses updates made as of January 1, 2025, reflecting the latest legislative changes and newly adopted regulations.

Highlights from the Publication

1. Regulatory Updates:
   • The Gambling Law Resource book incorporates changes in regulations from the California Gambling Control Commission and the Bureau of Gambling Control.
   • Newly adopted emergency measures and updates to compliance guidelines are included.
2. Enforcement and Compliance Guidelines:
   • Comprehensive sections detail enforcement responsibilities, licensing requirements, and disciplinary actions for non-compliance.
   • Specific focus on statewide involuntary exclusion lists and emergency preparedness plans for gambling establishments.
3. Licensing and Permitting:
   • Detailed criteria for obtaining state gambling licenses, key employee licenses, and work permits are provided.
   • The guide includes step-by-step procedures for applying, renewing, and maintaining licenses in compliance with state and local laws.
4. Tribal and Local Government Relations:
   • A thorough discussion of tribal-state gaming compacts and their alignment with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
   • Analysis of local government ordinances and their impact on gambling enterprises.
5. Responsible Gambling Programs:
   • Updated requirements for self-exclusion programs and training standards for employees in licensed establishments.
   • An expanded section on responsible gambling awareness initiatives and referral services.
6. Key Contacts and Resources:
   • Listings for state offices, including regional compliance and enforcement offices in Sacramento, Los Angeles, Fresno, and San Diego.
   • Direct links to the California Gambling Control Commission and Bureau of Gambling Control websites for accessing additional resources.

Accessibility and Applications

This essential resource is available for review on the websites of the Bureau of Gambling Control (oag.ca.gov/gambling) and the California Gambling Control Commission (cgcc.ca.gov). It is particularly valuable for:

• Legal professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of gambling law.
• Operators ensuring compliance with licensing and operational requirements.
• Regulators and policymakers shaping the future of California’s gambling industry.

Future Outlook

As California’s gambling landscape evolves, particularly with advances in technology and the growth of online and tribal gaming, this resource serves as a critical foundation for understanding the legal and regulatory framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to consult the guide regularly for insights into maintaining compliance and adapting to new legal standards.

For further inquiries, readers can contact the Bureau of Gambling Control directly at [email protected] or visit their offices statewide.

The California Gambling Control Commission held a significant meeting on April 18, 2024, to discuss and decide on various licensing and compliance matters crucial for the operation and regulation of the state’s gambling entities. The California Gambling Control Commission’s agenda was packed with key issues ranging from the renewal of cardroom licenses to the approval of tribal gaming key employees.

A notable decision from the meeting was the approval of the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund Final Report, allowing for the distribution of quarterly license revenue to eligible recipient Indian tribes. This move underscores the California Gambling Control Commission’s ongoing commitment to supporting tribal communities through structured revenue sharing, even as some financial shortfalls were acknowledged.

The California Gambling Control Commission also reviewed several renewal applications for cardroom owner licenses. Noteworthy renewals included Bankers Casino under Old Town Investments Incorporated, Blacksheep Casino Company and Bruce’s Bar and Casino, which were approved with specific conditions related to operational compliance and security protocols.

Another critical area of focus was the licensing of key employees at tribal casinos. Several applications for initial and renewal of key employee licenses were approved, reflecting the California Gambling Control Commission’s stringent oversight in ensuring that individuals in significant casino roles meet the regulatory requirements. These decisions are essential for maintaining the integrity and security of gaming operations within the state.

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Additionally, the meeting addressed the renewal and approval of third-party proposition player services, which are vital for cardrooms that do not bank their games. The California Gambling Control Commission approved several of these licenses, highlighting its role in facilitating responsible gambling while ensuring compliance with state laws.

The California Gambling Control Commission’s actions during the April meeting highlight the complex regulatory environment governing the state’s gambling industry and its proactive approach in adapting to new challenges and ensuring fair and safe gambling practices.

The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) is set to hold a pivotal meeting on March 21, 2024, where key decisions regarding the future of several cardrooms within the state are on the agenda. This meeting underscores the Commission’s role in overseeing the state’s gambling establishments, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a fair and transparent gaming environment. Here’s what stakeholders can expect:

Capitol Casino’s Licensing Future
Capitol Casino, a renowned name in the gambling sector, is up for the renewal of its cardroom owner type license. The Commission is presented with two options: to approve the renewal applications through March 31, 2026, or grant a 90-day extension through June 30, 2024. Commission staff recommend the latter, suggesting a cautious approach towards the renewal process.

Spotlight on Lucky Chances Casino
Lucky Chances Casino faces a critical juncture with its license renewal application. The Commission contemplates referring the applications to an evidentiary hearing, proposing an interim renewal license through September 30, 2025. This decision comes with stringent conditions aimed at preventing Rene Medina, a figure associated with the casino, from patronizing certain areas of the property, among other regulatory stipulations.

Oceana Cardroom’s Path Forward
LEB Holdings’ Oceana Cardroom is recommended for license renewal through March 31, 2026, with specific conditions regarding operational compliance. Before opening for business, the cardroom is required to undergo an inspection by the Bureau of Gambling Control and fulfill various regulatory requirements, ensuring a safe and compliant gaming environment.

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Decisions on Parkwest Bicycle Casino
Parkwest Bicycle Casino’s licensing outcome hangs in balance, with two options under consideration. The crux of the decision revolves around the permissibility of contractual relationships with Fortiss, LLC, and TPPPS providers. The staff recommendation leans towards option two, which includes applying for and maintaining a cardroom business license for Fortiss, LLC, should the administrative hearing find the current arrangements non-compliant.

Renewal Application for Rogelio’s
Rogelio’s Inc. seeks renewal through March 31, 2026, with conditions focusing on regulatory compliance before operations commence. This includes submitting a fully completed business entity supplemental information form and adhering to relocation, safety, security, and emergency plan requirements.

Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room
Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room face critical evaluations with recommended options leading towards evidentiary hearings or temporary licensing extensions. These decisions reflect the Commission’s commitment to upholding regulatory standards while ensuring fair consideration of each establishment’s circumstances.

This meeting is a testament to the dynamic nature of California’s gambling landscape, highlighting the Commission’s dedication to transparency, regulatory compliance, and the well-being of the gambling community. Stakeholders and the public await the outcomes, anticipating the impacts on the state’s gambling establishments and the broader gaming environment.