The biggest prize yet for the rapidly growing sports betting industry in America is California. Considering a sizable domestic gaming market and intense interest from the national industry giants, state after state has legalized sports betting since the Supreme Court made it possible in 2018. However, California has not. Well, this can change quite soon.
In November, voters of the state of California will have the opportunity to unleash the enormous new industry and change history.
A Brief History of California’s Gambling Legalization
The gaming market in California was virtually uncontrolled before 1998. The “Gaming Registration Act” passed by the Legislature in 1984, mandated that the Attorney General’s office offer consistent, minimal oversight of California card rooms. However, the Attorney General’s jurisdiction had a very narrow range and was underfunded. The “Gaming Control Act” was passed by the legislature after it became clear that the gambling business in California needed more comprehensive regulation.
Proposition 1A, which was approved by California voters in March 2000, altered the state constitution to allow Class III (casino-style) gambling on Indian property, as long as it is done in accordance with a gaming agreement signed by the Tribe and the State and is permitted by a tribal ordinance. The Tribe and the State have a shared interest in preventing criminal activity and other undesirable elements from interfering with tribal gaming activities. The State is ultimately responsible for ensuring compliance with all provisions of the compact, even though the Tribe continues to bear the primary duty for on-site oversight of gaming activities.
Pros of Legalized Gambling in California
Gambling has proven to be a tremendous economic success in many states and nations. One cannot ignore the fact that it caused a dramatic increase in employment, earnings, and taxes. In the meanwhile, critics of gambling have called attention to several factors which can negatively affect a state.
Tourism
Legalizing gambling would have the most positive impact on the nation’s tourism. Travelers from all over the world will undoubtedly come to nations where gambling is permitted. Significantly more tourists will enter the country, which will boost the economy and create jobs. Casinos and gambling establishments are required to pay substantial sums in taxes.
Popularity of sports
When money gets involved, sports get more attention. You will celebrate a player’s every move and admire their work. The audience will place a higher value on every point made in any sport.
Numerous business opportunities
Thousands of betting places would become potential business opportunities if betting were to be made legal. The opening of these locations across California can be quite advantageous. One of the biggest trends in online gambling over the past few years was live casinos. This is quite an attractive way to gamble, just look at the success of live casinos in New Jersey and visit iGamingNJ if you want to find out more about the success of NJ’s gaming industry, this success can and should be replicated in California.
Cons of Legalized Gambling in California
The main issue with gambling is the potential for addiction it has for its consumers. Addicts who become dependent on gambling may find it extremely difficult to stop. Given that players would be betting with actual money, compulsive individuals can end up bankrupting themselves.
