Tribes Looking for Unity on DFS, I-Poker
(Blog) Dave Palermo: Tribes Looking for Unity on DFS, I-Poker
Momentum to get a Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) bill out of the California Legislature is bullying efforts to legalize Internet poker, much to the dismay of five politically influential American Indian tribes aligned with Amaya/PokerStars and three Los Angeles-area card rooms. I-poker was stripped from the agenda of a recent state Assembly Government Organization (GO) Committee in favor of a DFS bill. And an I-poker bill sponsored by Senate GO Chairman Isadore Hall III has been shelved for 2016. “That bill is just going to sit there,” a Sacramento source said Tuesday. “At the end of this month it is going to die.” It’s not clear if tribal disunity surrounding I-poker will continue to play out in the debate over DFS, an issue many suggest poses a threat to the viability of the state’s $7 billion tribal casino industry. Some contend tribes should unite in an effort to block DFS in California for fear “tweaking” the penal code will allow competing forms of wagering that would encroach on the tribes’ constitutional guarantee to operate casino-style gambling. “The tribes should be enormously concerned about unintended consequences and how changing the penal code may allow other products to surface in competition with tribal gaming,” said a veteran regulator who request anonymity. “There are concerns DFS may lead to some unintended consequences,” agreed a prominent tribal attorney who like others interviewed for this article declined to be identified. “Once you begin screwing around with definitions of gambling in the penal code, who else is that going to let in?” But at least a few tribes have discussed with DFS operators their interest in adding sports lounges to their casinos. “The tribes are really looking at it and I think many would like to have it to enhance their casinos,” a tribal attorney said. “But they’re not ready to jump right in. It’s just a little early yet for them to put their arms around it.” A key player in all this is Attorney General Kamala Harris, a U.S. Senate candidate who sources contend is sitting on an opinion by her Department of Justice (DOJ) that DFS violates state law. “I’m convinced the Indian Gaming Law section [of the DOJ] thinks its gambling,” the regulatory source said. “I’m sure they do.” “My guess is her attorneys have looked at this,” said a Capitol Hill source. “Is she prepared to come out with a statement? I don’t know.” A number of sources suggest Harris won’t rule on the issue as long as deep-pocketed players in the debate – DraftKings Inc., FanDuel and investors Comcast, NBC and Google, not to mention professional sports – are writing campaign checks. The Sacramento Bee reported that DFS lobbyist and former Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley donated $2,700 to Harris’ Senate campaign. Harris’ staff is mute on what action the office is taking on a Nov. 2 letter from Assemblyman Marc Levine asking her to weigh in on the legality of DFS. “We can’t comment on any ongoing or potential investigation in order to protect the integrity of any investigation,” Harris Press Secretary Rachele Huennekens said. DraftKings and FanDuel contend they operate games of skill, an opinion not shared by Attorneys Generals in New York, Nevada and elsewhere. California Penal Code 330 to 337z appears to prohibit “pool selling or bookmaking.” In addition, the California Gambling Control Act prohibits gambling not permitted by law. There is no statutory authority for DFS. “I think the Attorney General is just trying to hide,” a Sacramento source said. “If she says it’s gambling, that’s big headlines. If she says it’s not gambling, she’ll look like an idiot because it probably is.” Assemblyman Levine said the state Legislature does not have authority to enact legislation that would, in effect, violate the penal code. He contends what is needed is a voter initiative to amend the state Constitution. “These sites should cease and desist operations until they are expressly permitted in California,” Levine said. “We should not debate regulations while betting goes on unregulated.” Levine does not publicly share speculation Harris is playing a political waiting game. “My hope is that she is conducting her due diligence and that her staff is helping to develop the proper determination and that will happen in due course,” Levine said. “Hopefully they’re making sure they got the right answer and will protect California consumers.” Assemblyman Adam Gray’s AB 1573 to legalize sports wagering requires an amendment to the state Constitution. His AB 1437 DFS bill does not. To his credit, Grey regards AB 1437 as a work in progress. “We need to crack down on illegal and unregulated online gaming and replace it with a safe and responsible entertainment option for adults, which includes safeguards against compulsive and underage gambling, money laundering, fraud, and identity theft,” Gray said. “We can only do so by bringing this industry out of the shadows and mandating enforceable consumer protection.” Eilers Researchconsulting estimates that daily fantasy games will annually generate $375 million in entry fees and $5m in state revenue on a 15 percent tax rate. But no gambling bill makes it out of the state Legislature without consensus among a dozen politically powerful Indian tribes, as failed efforts to enact I-poker have proven. Disagreement over “bad actor” provisions and licensing race tracks to operate poker websites have split tribal coalitions and stalled movement on I-poker. The Rincon and Pala bands of Luiseño Indians, San Manuel and Morongo bands of mission Indians and United Auburn Indian Community have advocated for I-poker legislation that would allow licensing Amaya/PokerStars and the tracks. But a group of about eight tribes led by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians and Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians have opposed participation by the tracks and Amaya/PokerStars. While there are hints of resolution on “bad actors,” the Pechanga/Agua group is resolute on prohibiting licensure of race tracks, contending it would violate voter-approved public policy for limited gambling in California. The coalition also contends track involvement in I-Poker could erode the tribes’ constitutionally guaranteed exclusivity to operate casino gambling. Sources contend the threat posed to tribal casino exclusivity by DFS may unite tribes on both DFS and I-poker. But some tribes in the Pechanga group remain neutral on DFS. Tribes also have sat down with DraftKings and FanDuel to discuss DFS lounges in their casinos. Rincon Councilman Steve Stallings, newly elected chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), asked legislators to hold off on DFS and concentrate on I-poker, expressing hope the tribal coalitions can resolve their differences. “I would like to see CNIGA play a major role in helping to unify the Indian tribes on the key issues that previously divided us,” he said in a prepared statement. But CNIGA has lost many of its politically influential tribes, including most of those in the Pechanga/Agua coalition. And the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations (TASIN) which currently lists nine members – including Pechanga, Agua Caliente and San Manuel – is apparently conflicted on I-poker. The Pechanga/Agua coalition has reached out to the rival coalition for a sit-down, a discussion that would certainly include DFS. But the days of tribal unity on DFS, I-poker, labor and most other issues seemed to have vanished with the landmark Proposition 1A in 2000. “Tribes just don’t work in a unified, organized, cohesive manner any longer,” a tribal regulator complained. “There is not a forum for tribes to get together and have this discussion. The tribal organizations in California are fractured into small, insignificant entities. “There’s more competition than collaboration and cooperation.” California Gaming8/28/2020
article
Casino Insider: Which casino hotels are open and taking reservations
(California) -- If you’re in need of a quick getaway, you may be wondering which casino hotels are open that you can stay at safely. Many of Southern California...
8/26/2020
article
A double threat of coronavirus and wildfire doesn’t stop casino patrons in Lake County
(California) -- Moments before Sarah Anderson and her husband strolled into the Twin Pine Casino & Hotel in Middletown on Wednesday night, a 747 flew low overhead,...
8/22/2020
article
‘I’m Not Worried’: Gamblers Pack Casino Surrounded by Raging Wildfires and COVID-19
(California) -- By Friday evening, northern California’s LNU Lightning Complex fire had become the second-largest wildfire in state history, killing at least five...
8/21/2020
article
Lucky 7 Casino: new tribal-state compact provides for workers’ rights
(California) -- A new compact between the State of California and the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this month includes provisions for...
8/20/2020
article
The California Gambling Control Commission
(California) -- The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) is found in Business and Professions Code Division 8, Chapter 5, Article 2. Section 19811 specifies...
8/18/2020
article
New state gaming compact with Tolowa-Dee-ni’ includes provisions for workers rights
(California) -- A new compact between the State of California and the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this month includes provisions for...
8/14/2020
article
Casino Insider: Get your tan on and splash in the water at these casino pools
(California) -- Let’s face it, 2020 has not been such a great year and August marks another month of living that pandemic life. If you desperately need a quick...
8/12/2020
article
Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation's Updated Gaming Compact With State Receives County Support
(California) -- The Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation’s efforts to ratify a new gaming compact with the state received support from Del Norte County supervisors on...
8/11/2020
article
These Southern California casinos have reopened their pools during the pandemic
(California) -- Since reopening, Southern California’s casinos are slowly bringing back certain amenities and figuring out how to manage them during the novel...
article
Leading Tribal Casino to Reopen with UV-C Air Disinfection Against Coronavirus
(California) -- UltraViolet Devices, Inc. (UVDI) announced it is partnering with the Mole Lake Casino Lodge and Conference Center to provide seven Air Disinfection...
7/29/2020
article
Quechan Casino reopens after more than four months
(California) -- The Quechan Casino is ready to welcome guests in phase one of its reopening process. Kyle Gawthorp, Executive Director of Marketing for Quechan Casino...
7/17/2020
article
Casino Insider: When will Southern California’s casinos bring back bingo?
(California) -- Though all of Southern California’s casinos are up and running, not everything is back online. Many amenities such as pools, spas, buffets and...
7/15/2020
article
Businesses on tribal lands operating while other California businesses close
(California) -- The California Gaming Association is reaching out to Governor Newsom, saying he's applying his policies unfairly. The Governor ordered indoor seating...
press release
California Cardroom Operators Call on Governor to Close Tribal Casinos
(California) -- Operators of cardrooms across California have called on Gov. Gavin Newsom to order the closure of tribal casinos amid the surge in coronavirus cases. The...
7/14/2020
article
California cardrooms want guv to close tribal casinos
(California) -- California’s cardroom operators want their governor to order the state’s tribal casinos to close, ostensibly to “protect the health and...
article
California Gaming Association Tells Gov. Newsom to Close Tribal Casinos, Claiming Health Trumps Sovereignty
(California) -- The California Gaming Association (CGA) has written to Governor Gavin Newsom asking him to order the closure of tribal casinos in the state.
article
When will bingo return to Southern California’s casinos?
(California) -- The luck of the draw and the fun of gambling isn’t limited solely to things such as slot machines, table games and off-track betting, but also...
7/13/2020
article
California Gaming Association urges Governor Newsom to order all casinos, including on tribal land, to close temporarily
(California) -- Thunder Valley Casino has been under fire in recent days from both current and former workers who say the resort is not doing enough to keep employees...
7/6/2020
article
BLOG: The Week In Sports Betting News: Will 2022 Be Golden?
(California) -- Happy Monday, everyone. Leagues continue to announce more and more news that suggests sports betting should be back in full swing by the end of the month...
7/5/2020
article
California tribes get more time for betting ballot, cardrooms shut again
(California) -- California’s tribal casino operators have been given more time to pursue legal sports betting while the state’s cardroom operators have been...
7/3/2020
article
Casino Insider: How the casinos enforce their rules
(California) -- When it comes to visiting the region’s casinos, things are much different than the pre-coronavirus era. Casinos across the region say you must wear...
7/2/2020
article
Two desert casinos press forward with fireworks as state urges caution
(California) -- Two tribal-owned casinos in Riverside and San Bernardino counties are moving forward with plans for Fourth of July fireworks viewings this weekend, as...
7/1/2020
article
How casinos are enforcing mask, smoking rules during coronavirus
(California) -- Casinos have reopened in Southern California, but there are rules in the new normal created by the novel coronavirus pandemic. All of the tribal-owned...
6/29/2020
article
Konocti Vista Casino Offering Fireworks This Fourth of July
(California) -- Konocti Vista Casino has teamed up with Mission Grown Medicinals, Big Valley Rancheria Smoke Shop and Lake County Tribal Health Consortium to continue...
6/28/2020
article
Casino Workers Voice Concerns Over Safety Protocols, Enforcement
(California) -- Casinos are up and running with modifications due to COVID-19, but some casino workers said establishing protocols might not be enough, and more might be...
6/27/2020
article
VIDEO: Casino Workers Share Safety Protocol Concerns
(California) -- Some workers said they have concerns about the enforcement of safety measures at reopened casinos. NBC 7’s Claudette Stefanian has more.
article
Lake County casinos gradually reopening
(California) -- Casinos in Lake County have been gradually reopening since June 15, despite the fact Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote a letter to tribal leaders pleading with...
6/24/2020
article
San Diego County Investigating COVID-19 Cases Possibly Linked to Casinos
(California) -- San Diego County Public Health officials said Wednesday they are working with tribal lands to investigate positive COVID-19 cases that may be connected...
6/23/2020
press release
Local Casinos Bet on Buffet Replacement
(California) -- Buffets are gone, and we don’t know if they’re ever going to come back. The joys of this style of all-you-can-eat dining are now a treasured...
6/22/2020
article
Which Southern California casinos have resumed bus programs
(California) -- As Southern California’s tribal-owned casinos have reopened they’ve powered on slot machines, fired up the grills at restaurants and some...
6/15/2020
article
RADIO: CA Tribal Leaders Say Casino Gambling in State is Much Safer than Las Vegas Right Now
(California) -- Yes, some Vegas casinos opened earlier this month. But as KCBS Radio's Megan Goldsby reports, some California tribal leaders say you’ll be much...
article
Augustine Casino in Coachella Reopens
(California) -- Augustine Casino in Coachella reopened Monday with several modifications after being closed for three months due to the coronavirus pandemic. All guests...
6/13/2020
article
Why three tribal casinos in Southern California waited until June to reopen
(California) -- In Southern California, many Native American-owned casinos reopened in a flurry last month, welcoming back crowds of customers and implementing new...
article
Augustine Casino In Coachella To Reopen Monday
(California) -- Augustine Casino in Coachella will reopen Monday with several modifications after being closed for three months due to the coronavirus pandemic. All...
6/12/2020
article
Augustine Casino in Coachella To Reopen Monday
(California) -- Augustine Casino in Coachella will reopen Monday with several modifications after being closed for three months due to the coronavirus pandemic. All...
6/10/2020
article
Casinos are Open / For some staff, it's too big a gamble
(California) -- On May 12, staffers received word from their manager at Bear River Casino Resort saying it would be opening in 10 days and employees were expected to...
article
Casinos are open after coronavirus closures: What you need to know before visiting
(California) -- When the novel coronavirus began to spread in Southern California, it brought the region’s casinos to a screeching halt, with players not able to...
article
Casinos reopen with COVID-19 safety protocols
(California) -- As the state of California continues to loosen stay-at-home rules that were in place to combat the spread of the coronavirus, residents were happy to...
6/9/2020
article
All tribal-owned casinos open in Sacramento region ahead of California's reopening plan
(California) -- Despite California Governor Gavin Newsom's plan for a staged reopening, casinos across the state have opted to reopen ahead of what Newsom and health...
article
Casino Pauma to reopen on Friday
(California) -- Casino Pauma announced plans Monday to reopen its doors at the end of this week, becoming the last of San Diego County’s casinos to get back into...
article
Konocti Vista Casino and Resort to reopen June 15
(California) -- Konocti Vista Casino & Resort is excited to announce that it will reopen on Monday, June 15, at 8 a.m. “We stood with our community when we...
article
North County gaming venue is last to reopen in San Diego County region
(California) -- Casino Pauma announced plans Monday to reopen its doors at the end of this week, becoming the last of San Diego County’s casinos to get back into the...
6/8/2020
article
Casino Pauma set to reopen Friday
(California) -- Casino Pauma was one of the first casinos in its region to voluntarily close and one of the last to re-open. Casino Pauma has been temporarily closed...
article
Thunder Valley among latest casinos to reopen
(California) -- Casinos around the state are reopening for the first time since the stay-at-home order began in March to slow the spread of COVID-19. Among them is...
article
Will casino buffets ever return? Three local gaming spots are testing sit-down option
(California) -- As competition for visitor dollars has heated up between local casinos in recent years, one of the most-popular ways the Indian-run gaming venues have...
6/5/2020
article
Casino Insider: Here’s why this Coachella casino is staying closed for now
(California) -- We’ve crossed the threshold where there are more casinos open than are not. This week we saw two big casinos — Pechanga Resort Casino near...
article
California to Allow Pro Sports, Day Camps as Coronavirus Shutdowns Ease
(California) -- California broadly relaxed its coronavirus-related shutdowns on Friday, moving to allow professional sports to be played without audiences and reopen day...
6/3/2020
article
Bay Area casinos pump the brakes on reopening — for now
(California) -- The Bay Area’s tribal casinos aren’t ready to reopen quite yet, even as restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus relax and casinos...
article
Colusa Casino Takes New Precautions As It Reopens Amid Pandemic
(California) -- Colusa Casino is not taking any risks when it comes to reopening amidst a pandemic. There were people waiting at the front door when the casino reopened...
article
Colusa Casino reopening to the public today
(California) -- The Cachil Dehe Band of Wintum Indians of the Colusa Indian Community and the Colusa Casino Resort Executive Leadership announced on Friday that Colusa...
6/2/2020
article
As other casinos reopen, here’s why Augustine Casino remains closed
(California) -- While many tribal-owned casinos across Southern California have flipped on their slot machines and opened the doors to customers, Augustine Casino is...
6/1/2020
article
Jackson Rancheria Casino to reopen June 8
(California) -- Last week, Jackson Rancheria Casino became the fourth Sacramento-area Indian casino to unveil reopening plans, which include a plethora of safety...
5/30/2020
article
‘The moment is right for us’: California moves toward legalized sports betting
(California) -- In the midst of a budget deficit caused by the coronavirus crisis, California could turn to sports betting to increase revenue. Sen. Bill Dodd and...
article
Jackson Rancheria, Cache Creek, And Thunder Valley Casinos Set To Reopen On June 8
(California) -- As California moves through the stages of reopening, some casinos across the state are back in business. In Northern California, Jackson Rancheria, Cache...
5/29/2020
article
Casino Insider: Some casinos have reopened, here’s what it’s like now
(California) -- A number of Southern California’s tribal casinos have reopened at this point, and things look a lot different than the pre-COVID times. We’re...
article
Some casinos have reopened, here’s what it’s like now
(California) -- A number of Southern California’s tribal casinos have reopened at this point, and things look a lot different than the pre-COVID times. We’re...
5/28/2020
article
Effort to legalize sports betting cites coronavirus’ attack on economy
(California) -- Ballparks, arenas and ice rinks have sat empty to limit the spread the coronavirus, but a pair of Northern California legislators are betting that...
article
Legal sports betting pitched as California budget salve
(California) -- Two California lawmakers on Thursday pitched legalized sports betting as a way to help prop up a state budget devastated by the economic shutdown...
article
Another Northern California Indian casino reopening. Casinos in Tahoe, Reno gearing up, too
(California) -- Jackson Rancheria Casino became the fourth Sacramento-area Indian casino to announce a reopening date Thursday, while casinos at Lake Tahoe and Reno said...
article
Casino Pauma to remain temporarily closed for the safety of guests, community and employees
(California) -- Choosing to follow the advice of Gov. Gavin Newsom and the guidance of government and health officials instead of the trend of several California-based...
article
Gamblers at San Diego casino are separated by plastic partitions at betting tables in 'new normal' of gaming
(California) -- Footage has emerged of what appears to be a 'new normal' when it comes to gaming tables in casinos. In a brief TikTok video shot earlier this...
5/27/2020
article
Asserting Sovereignty, Indian Casinos Defy California’s Governor and Reopen
(California) -- It was a high-stakes gamble: a chance to win big at the slot machines but risk getting infected with the coronavirus. Braving a cold drizzle last week,...
article
Soboba, Cahuilla casinos reopen after temporary coronavirus closures
(California) -- Soboba Casino Resort near San Jacinto and the new Cahuilla Casino Hotel near Anza both opened their doors to the public on Wednesday, May 27, after...
article
Chicken Ranch Casino Sets June 1 Reopening
(California) -- Tribal Leaders of the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Me-Wuk Indians have announced Chicken Ranch Casino’s reopening for is scheduled for 8 a.m., Monday,...
article
Valley casinos make their moves toward reopening
(California) -- Two Central Valley casinos are set to reopen after a couple months closed due to coronavirus, while two others are remaining closed for the time being....
5/23/2020
article
As coronavirus stay-at-home restrictions ease, California casinos gamble on reopening
(California) -- Michael L. Fennell says he has spent a good portion of his 70 years gambling, so he knows the difference between a long shot and a sure bet. And he...
article
LA-Area Casinos Are Opening Restaurants and Bars for the Holiday Weekend
(California) -- A number of greater Los Angeles-area casinos are reopening this weekend, complicating the state’s stay at home mandates during what could be a...
article
Column: Santa Anita jockeys find a stay-at-home order that they can live with
(California) -- The break-in occurred early in the morning, Aaron Gryder standing on a flipped-over trash can as he tried to squeeze his body through a trailer window...
article
New-look Santa Anita cashes winning ticket as racing returns
(California) -- Horses are thundering down the stretch again at Santa Anita. There are no fans or owners cheering them on. No photos in the winner’s circle. No...
article
Chicken Ranch Bingo and Casino plans to reopen 1 June
(California) -- Tribal Leaders of the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Me-Wuk Indians announced that Chicken Ranch Bingo & Casino in Jamestown, California will reopen at 8 a....
5/22/2020
article
Newsom to announce California casino reopening guidance
(California) -- Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that he plans to issue reopening guidance for casinos and card rooms around June 8. This comes as some casinos, like...
article
'Dreamt of this moment': Reopening day is here for six casinos around the Coachella Valley
(California) -- Six casinos in or near the Coachella Valley are opening their doors Friday to guests who are ready to gamble on slot machines and card games, despite a...
article
Casinos reopen amid pandemic
(California) -- Two regional casinos re-opened their doors to the public this week despite concerns from the county’s leading health authority and the governor of...
article
More casinos to reopen in San Diego County, more restaurants and shops reopen too
(California) -- Two more tribal casinos will reopen Friday and more restaurants and shops will open their doors for in-person service, as San Diego County steps...
article
Cher-Ae Heights Casino opens doors with new safety protocols during the pandemic
(California) -- Cher-Ae Heights General Manager Ryan Sundberg announced Friday the casino is opening its doors to the public. According to their website, employees have...
article
Chicken Ranch Casino To Reopen Next Month
(California) -- Chicken Ranch Casino will reopen next month, and officials note that the opening will include health and safety changes for staff and customers. After...
5/21/2020
article
Cache Creek Casino Betting on Social Distancing for Eventual Reopening
(California) -- When Kari Smith walks onto the gaming floor of Cache Creek Casino in Yolo County these days, the veteran general manager can scarcely reconcile the sound...
article
Casino employee fears reopening amid coronavirus pandemic
(California) -- Several of the valley's casinos are opening their doors to the public once again. The casinos reopening have implemented many safety precautions, the...
article
Bear River Casino to reopen Sunday despite public health concerns of Humboldt officials
(California) -- In a controversial move, Bear River Casino Resort said they plan to reopen their doors Sunday, May 24. "We are excited to announce we are reopening...
5/20/2020
article
3 Inland Empire casinos set to reopen with restrictions
(California) -- Three tribal casinos in Southern California have announced plans to reopen Friday after temporarily shutting down because of the coronavirus pandemic....
article
Casinos Return As County Moves to Accelerate Reopening Process
(California) -- Casinos throughout San Diego County are beginning to restart their gaming machines. Though California Governor Gavin Newsom asked tribal governments to...
article
Casino Pauma To Remain Closed, Bucking Local Tribal Casino Trend
(California) -- Casino Pauma announced Wednesday that it will remain closed for the time being in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, bucking the trend of many...
article
County awaits approval to allow in-person dining, allows funerals with restrictions
(California) -- San Diego County officials on Wednesday loosened public health restrictions on gatherings for funerals as they waited for state approval to start...
article
Gold Country Casino Resort announces reopening date
(California) -- Gold Country Casino Resort in Oroville will be reopening its doors on May 22, the Tribal Council of the Berry Creek Rancheria announced Wednesday morning...
article
Here Are The Casinos Planning To Reopen For Memorial Day Weekend
(California) -- As California and the rest of the U.S. begins to reopen from the coronavirus shutdown, several casinos in the Southland are set to welcome back gamblers...
article
TRIBAL LEADERS: In Response: Casinos reopening is a matter of sovereignty
(California) -- Re “San Diego County casinos are about to gamble with patrons’ lives” (May 14): Your editorial board has expressed concern over the...
article
Casino Pauma to remain temporarily closed
(California) -- Choosing to follow the advice of Governor Gavin Newsom and the guidance of government and health officials instead of the trend of several California-...
5/19/2020
article
Several Southern California casinos to reopen Friday
(California) -- Several Southern California casinos announced they will open reopen Friday, May 22 after being shuttered for roughly two months due to concerns over the...
article
Some California casinos roll the dice on reopening while others wait
(California) -- Sacramento area casinos have not announced plans to re-open during California’s stay at home order, while others have. Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote a...
article
Two Sacramento area casinos set reopen dates, despite pleas from Gov. Newsom to delay
(California) -- After two months of shutdown because of the coronavirus pandemic, two of greater Sacramento’s Indian casinos announced reopening dates Tuesday in...
article
Harrah’s, Morongo casinos to reopen Friday
(California) -- Harrah’s Resort Southern California near Valley Center and Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa near Cabazon are the latest Southern California casinos...
article
Multiple Tribal Casinos Reopening by End of the Week
(California) -- Three tribal casinos in Southern California are set to reopen Friday after being shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic, it was announced Tuesday....
article
San Diego County Indian Casinos Reopen Amid State, County Criticism
(California) -- On Monday, Casinos in San Diego County began reopening despite several weeks of please from the local, state, and federal levels of government.
article
Spotlight 29, Morongo and Tortoise Rock casinos all set to open Friday
(California) -- Owners of Spotlight 29,Tortoise Rock and the two Morongo casinos announced on Tuesday plans to reopen Friday — the earliest opening date yet for...
article
Cher-Ae Heights Casino to Reopen Friday Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Plans to Offer Special Senior Hours
(California) -- Days after Bear River Casino announced that it would reopen on May 24, Cher-Ae Heights has shared on social media that it will also reopen this Friday...
article
Humboldt County casino openings a ‘big concern,’ top health official says
(California) -- As California enters the next phase of its stay-at-home order, casinos are beginning to consider re-opening to the public, a topic of concern for...
article
SACBEE: Some California casinos bet on reopening, but don’t gamble your life with COVID-19
(California) -- If you wouldn’t bet your life on a card game, don’t even think about visiting a casino during the coronavirus pandemic. Casinos around...
5/18/2020
article
Casinos Are Reopening, But Will People Go?
(California) -- Several casinos are reopening today after momentarily shutting around 2 months earlier, but citizens have various viewpoints on whether people will or...
article
California tribal casinos start to reopen, masks required
(California) -- One of California's largest tribal casinos reopened Monday to a large crowd as customers had their temperatures taken at the door and were ordered to...
article
Northern California casinos nearly ready to open doors — but Newsom wants tribes to back off
(California) -- Northern California’s casinos are gearing up to reopen — with temperature stations to screen customers for COVID-19 and fewer slot machines...
article
Some casinos run by Native Americans are set to reopen, not subject to US laws
(California) -- Several San Diego casinos are taking a gamble with COVID-19 this week and are reopening. Because these casinos are on Native American reservations, they...
article
Casinos, Lake Jennings campground, and libraries set to reopen with restrictions
(California) -- Four San Diego Indian casinos will restart operations beginning Monday. Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine will open Monday, followed Wednesday by Sycuan...
article
Expanded Cahuilla Casino Hotel near Anza, California, plans to reopen soon amid coronavirus pandemic
(California) -- The Cahuilla Band of Indians announced on Friday plans to reopen its recently expanded Cahuilla Casino Hotel near Anza, California, on May 27. The move...
article
Four San Diego casinos set to reopen to the public this week
(California) -- Five San Diego casinos will be opening their doors this week to the public, despite Governor Gavin Newsom's request they reconsider. Viejas opened...
article
Readers React: As casinos roll the dice with reopening, should patrons return?
(California) -- Regarding “San Diego County casinos are about to gamble with patrons’ lives” (May 15): The county, city and state have no real jurisdiction over casinos...
5/17/2020
article
Casinos Are Reopening, But Will People Go?
(California) -- Several casinos are reopening this week after temporarily closing about two months ago, but residents differ on whether people will or should take a...
article
San Diego-area casinos set to reopen this week with Viejas up first
(California) -- Several San Diego-area casinos are planning to reopen to the public this week for the first time in more than two months after closing in the wake of the...
5/16/2020
article
Governor appeals to tribes to reconsider their decisions to reopen casinos
(California) -- Gov. Gavin Newsom has appealed to San Diego County’s tribal governments to reconsider their decisions to reopen their casinos this week. In a...
article
Newsom urges California tribes to reconsider opening casinos in 'interest of public health'
(California) -- Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging California tribes to reconsider announcing reopening dates for their casinos. While tribes are sovereign nations and...
article
San Diego County blinks first, agreeing to let local tribes reopen casinos
(California) -- San Diego County has the most tribal-operated casinos per capita than any other county in the United States. All have been closed since March to prevent...
article
Which San Diego County Casinos Are Reopening?
(California) -- Four San Diego County casinos will begin reopening this week, two months after temporarily closing due to the coronavirus pandemic. Jamul Casino joins...
5/15/2020
article
Newsom urges California tribal casinos to reconsider opening, citing coronavirus
(California) -- Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday appealed to a group of Native American tribes to reconsider plans to reopen their casinos in the coming days, warning that...
article
Dr. Wilma Wooten admits she doesn’t have power to prevent tribal casinos reopening
(California) -- The county appeared to soften its stance Thursday in regard to tribal casino reopenings, a day after announcements that operations will be restarted on...
article
Here’s when Southern California casinos plan to reopen
(California) -- Although many Southern California businesses remain closed amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, some tribal-owned casinos have announced reopening plans...
article
These Southern California casinos have announced reopening dates
(California) -- We’re back for the first Thursday Casino Insider in a while! We’re hoping this is the beginning of so much news you’ll see us every week like in the...
article
Against Public Health Advice, Bear River Casino Plans to Reopen a Week From Sunday
(California) -- Below is a press release from Bear River Casino and Resort. Before publishing it, we spoke briefly with Kayla Corder, the tribe’s casino’s...
article
Fresno County casino making ends meet during COVID-19 outbreak by selling gas, food
(California) -- While the doors to the gaming floor remain closed because of the restrictions brought on by COVID-19, the Mono Wind Casino in the Fresno County community...
5/14/2020
article
County backs off plan to block casino openings, recognizes sovereign right
(California) -- County officials on Thursday backed off of their opposition to tribal nations’ plans to reopen casinos that have been closed for two months and now...
article
San Diego County health officials critical of casinos' plans to reopen next week
(California) -- San Diego County health officials were critical of local casinos’ plans for reopening when asked about the issue during Wednesday's daily...
article
San Diego County officials walk back comments on casinos reopening
(California) -- A drastic change in tone from the county's top health officer, 24 hours after vowing to work with the CDC to prevent local casinos from re-opening...
5/13/2020
article
County Could Spar With Casinos; Government Offices Look To Reopen
(California) -- San Diego County officials continue to reopen portions of the economy — including county offices — but could come into conflict with local...
article
County to call on feds to help block tribal casinos from reopening Monday
(California) -- San Diego County Public Health Officer Wilma Wooten on Wednesday said she strongly disagrees with local casinos’ plans to resume operations Monday...
article
San Diego County Health Officer Opposes Casinos’ Early Reopening Plans
(California) -- San Diego County’s Public Health Officer said Wednesday plans by several tribal casinos to reopen in the coming week create a health risk amid the...
article
‘We do not agree’ with May reopening dates for local casinos, county says
(California) -- One by one, San Diego’s Native American gaming tribes are announcing plans to reopen their respective facilities to the public, with some reopening...
article
Valley View reopening May 22
(California) -- Almost exactly two months after closing in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Valley View Casino will reopen next week. “I’m not sure I...
article
Coachella Valley casinos prepare to reopen following coronavirus closures
(California) -- Workers wiped down slot machines at Spotlight 29 Casino in Coachella. Hourly cleaning of each machine is just one of several new measures in place that...
article
Valley View and Sycuan casinos plan to reopen next week
(California) -- As the state tiptoes back into reopening, two tribal casinos in San Diego County have announced reopening dates after temporarily closing months ago to...
5/12/2020
article
Tribe, casino offer community support
(California) -- The Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria and Bear River Casino Resort in Loleta recently donated $2,000 to help support the Betty Kwan Chinn...
5/11/2020
article
8 San Diego casinos to reopen this month
(California) -- Eight Native American gaming tribes in San Diego County are gearing up to reopen their casinos beginning on May 18. In a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom,...
5/10/2020
article
Bear River Donates $2,000 to Food for People & Betty Chinn Homeless Foundation
(California) -- The Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria and Bear River Casino Resort located in Loleta, California donated $2,000 to help support The Betty Kwan...
5/9/2020
article
Tribes tell Newsom they plan to reopen Southern California casinos. What about north state?
(California) -- Eight Southern California Indian tribes have told Gov. Gavin Newsom they plan to begin reopening their casinos May 18, even as the governor pleads with...
4/27/2020
article
California Tribes Consider Reopening Plans
(California) -- A longtime observer of tribal gaming, a member of one of the largest gaming tribes in California, has described the overall atmosphere there as like...
4/24/2020
article
Augustine Casino Announces Layoffs, Furloughs Affecting 93% of Its Workforce
(California) -- Augustine Casino in Coachella will be laying off 75 employees and furloughing 210 others in response to losing millions of dollars in revenue since...
4/23/2020
article
Augustine Casino Announces Layoffs, Furloughs Affecting 93% of Its Workforce
(California) -- Augustine Casino in Coachella announced Thursday it would be laying off 75 employees and furloughing 210 others in response to losing millions of dollars...
4/22/2020
article
California Tribal Casinos Probably Facing Many Months of Significantly Decreased Business
(California) -- The vast majority of tribal casinos operating in the state of California shut down their operations recently due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic...
4/15/2020
article
Fitch Revises Quechan's Outlook to Negative; Affirms 'B' IDR
(California) -- Fitch Ratings has affirmed the Quechan Indian Tribe's (Quechan) Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'B'. In addition, Fitch has affirmed Quechan...
4/11/2020
article
Bear River Casino’s Community Service Initiative Brings Pizza To Essential Workers
(California) -- Bear River Casino Resort made surprise pizza deliveries from Funky Monkey’s in Fortuna on Monday, April 6th to the Fortuna Grocery Outlet, Green...
4/9/2020
article
No one really knows when casinos will reopen, but here are their best bets
(California) -- As the novel coronavirus pandemic continues, tribal-owned casinos across Southern California remain closed and the target for reopening continues to...
4/5/2020
article
Tribal casino closures will 'be crippling for some' if stretched into June, casino GM predicts
(California) -- Helen Galaris of Los Angeles has been visiting Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio on weekends for years. As a loyal customer, Galaris has a host who...
press release
Bear River Casino Resort Closed Until Further Notice
(California) -- The Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria will continue the temporary closure of Bear River Casino Resort beyond the previous April 10th...
4/2/2020
article
Golden Gate Racing Suspended by Health Department
(California) -- In accordance with instructions received the morning of April 2 from the Alameda County Public Health Officer, Golden Gate Fields will temporarily close...
3/30/2020
article
Jackson Rancheria Casino Extends Temporary Closure Amid Coronavirus, Cuts 275 Jobs
(California) -- The Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort is extending its temporary closure indefinitely amid the coronavirus pandemic. The casino suspended operations back...
article
Valley View Casino & Hotel, Agua Caliente casinos extend coronavirus closure
(California) -- Valley View Casino & Hotel in Valley Center and the Agua Caliente casinos in the Coachella Valley both recently announced plans to extend their...
article
Jackson Rancheria Casino Extends Temporary Closure Amid Coronavirus, Cuts 275 Jobs
(California) -- The Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort is extending its temporary closure indefinitely amid the coronavirus pandemic. The casino suspended operations back...
3/29/2020
article
California lottery closes office after Sacramento employee tests positive for coronavirus
(California) -- The California State Lottery has closed its Sacramento office to employees after one of them tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a staff...
3/28/2020
press release
Harrah’s Northern California extends team member pay through 16 April
(California) -- Harrah's Northern California Tribal and property leadership are notifying team members impacted by the temporary suspension in operations that they...
3/27/2020
article
Dreaming of lottery riches? Virus could cut jackpots
(California) -- Hoping to escape all the coronavirus-caused economic uncertainty by winning a giant lottery jackpot? Think again. Those jackpots are going to shrink as...
3/25/2020
article
Casinos closed by coronavirus donate perishable food
(California) -- Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio and Morongo Casino Resort and Spa in Cabazon, all temporarily closed...
article
Riverside, San Bernardino county tribes donate thousands of pounds of food to nonprofits
(California) -- With their casinos closed, many local tribes have opted to donate their unused food to nonprofits that can distribute it to locals in need. Over the past...
3/24/2020
article
Mono Wind is fifth tribal casino in Valley to close as a coronavirus precaution
(California) -- The last holdout among Indian casinos in the central San Joaquin Valley against closing as a coronavirus precaution has shut its doors until at least...
article
Colusa Casino Resort closes amid coronavirus pandemic
(California) -- The Cachil Dehe Band of Wintum Indians of the Colusa Indian Community and the Colusa Casino Resort executive leadership team announced on the evening of...
article
How to play at Southern California casinos virtually amid the coronavirus pandemic
(California) -- If you’re bummed because you can’t visit the casinos — as those in Southern California have closed due to the novel coronavirus...
3/23/2020
article
California Sports Betting Plans may Have to Wait due to the Coronavirus
(California) -- California was one of the first large states to employ a shelter-in-place order to combat the spread of the coronavirus with Gov. Gavin Newsom issuing...
3/20/2020
article
Most San Diego area casinos close in wake of COVID-19
(California) -- The slot machines and poker tables went silent at most of San Diego County’s casinos at noon Friday, the latest casualties in an escalating...
article
San Diego Tribal Casinos To Close Starting At Noon Amid Coronavirus Outbreak
(California) -- Five tribal casinos in San Diego County will close starting at noon Friday amid concerns over the coronavirus and will remain closed through the end of...
3/19/2020
article
Five San Diego Tribal Casinos Are Temporarily Closing, Citing Coronavirus
(California) -- Closure announcements from California tribal entities have been increasing in recent days, a ball that got rolling last Saturday when the operators...
3/18/2020
article
Gold Country Casino temporarily suspending operations
(California) -- Gold Country Casino announced on its website Wednesday that it is “temporarily suspending operations until further notice” in response to the...
article
Pala Casino, Spa & Resort and Cahuilla Casino temporarily close amid coronavirus concerns
(California) -- Pala Casino, Spa & Resort in northern San Diego County and Cahuilla Casino in Anza are the most recent casino properties to close their doors...
article
Sherwood Valley Casino temporarily suspends operations to prevent spread of COVID-19
(California) -- Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians announced Wednesday that in an abundance of precaution they have made the difficult decision to suspend all...
article
Tribal Casinos In San Diego County Shutting Down Temporarily Starting Friday
(California) -- Even though schools and businesses have mostly shut down to stop the spread of the coronavirus, several San Diego County casinos remained open Wednesday...
article
Tribal leaders announce closures of San Diego County casinos amid coronavirus
(California) -- Wednesday afternoon, San Diego tribal leaders announced the closures of county casinos amid the coronavirus outbreak. Tribal government leaders of the...
press release
Barona, Campo, Jamul, Sycuan, and Viejas Jointly Announce Casino Closures in Response to COVID-19
(California) -- Tribal government leaders of the Barona Band of Mission Indians, Campo Kumeyaay Nation, Jamul Indian Village, Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and...
3/17/2020
article
Coronavirus concerns push Soboba, Agua Caliente and Valley View casinos to close temporarily
(California) -- Soboba Casino Resort near San Jacinto, the Agua Caliente casinos in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs and Valley View Casino and Hotel in San Diego County...
article
Coronavirus: Agua Caliente, Fantasy Springs, Morongo latest Coachella Valley casinos to announce temporary closures
(California) -- The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Morongo Band of Mission Indians and Cabazon Band of Mission Indians on Tuesday became the latest tribes in...
article
Elk Valley Casino Closes Temporarily Due to COVID-19
(California) -- In consideration of recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and requests from both federal and state governments, the Elk Valley...
article
Jackson Rancheria casino, hotel to close amid COVID-19 concerns
(California) -- The Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians announced Tuesday they will close most of its facilities, including its casino, and one of its annual events...
article
Paiute Palace Casino in Bishop closes through end of March
(California) -- Effective March 17 at noon, the Bishop Paiute Tribal Council is responding to the emergency situation of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and has made the decision...
article
Some North State casinos close, some remain open for business
(California) -- The casinos run by several North State tribes in California have been making decisions about their operations for gaming, food services, and other...
article
Thunder Valley, Red Hawk Casinos Announce Temporary Closures Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
(California) -- Area casinos are now announcing they will be closing over coronavirus concerns. Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Placer County said on Monday they would...
article
Which Southern California casinos are open and closed amid coronavirus pandemic
(California) -- As concerns have continued to grow and restrictions have continued to increase amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, many of Southern California’s...
article
Why are the DMV and some casinos still open in San Diego County?
(California) -- Despite the numerous pandemic-related closures throughout San Diego County, several businesses and organizations remain open. Two in particular have...
article
SCHEUTZ: Bad Regulations Can Leave a Scar
(California) -- A ridiculous requirement that applicants for gaming licenses must report all “scars” on their bodies to the regulatory authority is a great...
3/16/2020
article
Bear River Casino to Close
(California) -- The Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria has decided to suspend operations at its Bear River Casino and Hotel, Thirsty Bear Lounge, River’s...
article
Coronavirus concerns prompt Fantasy Springs, Morongo casinos to close; others shutter some amenities
(California) -- Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa announced on Monday, March 16, that they would temporarily close to help prevent the...
article
Jackson Rancheria casino closing for 2 weeks as Thunder Valley cuts back over coronavirus
(California) -- The Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort is closing for two weeks because of concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, but the 1,175 workers at the casino will...
article
Table Mountain, Eagle Mountain casinos announce temporary closures as coronavirus precaution
(California) -- Table Mountain Casino in Friant planned to close its doors in response to growing coronavirus concerns and calls by health officials to limit public...
article
Why are some Southern California casinos still open during coronavirus pandemic?
(California) -- While a number of Southern California casinos have shut their doors to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus, some were still open for gambling as of...
press release
Bear River Casino to Suspend Operations Tomorrow a ‘Minimum of One Week’
(California) -- The Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria is continually monitoring updates on COVID- 19 from The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), The World...
3/15/2020
article
Coronavirus pandemic shutters more Southern California casinos temporarily
(California) -- As screens turned dark around them as the clock inched closer to 5 p.m., people still spun the reels on still-operational slot machines at San Manuel...
article
Pechanga, San Manuel casinos to close until April
(California) -- Pechanga Resort Casino and San Manuel Casino said Saturday they will both close temporarily in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The two Southern...
article
San Manuel, Pechanga casinos to close temporarily amid coronavirus fears
(California) -- San Manuel Casino in Highland and Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula announced Saturday, March 14, that they would temporarily suspend operations through...
article
Northern California casino closes to stem coronavirus. Newsom working with tribal leaders
(California) -- Cache Creek Casino Resort announced Sunday evening it’s closing temporarily in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Cache Creek’s...
3/14/2020
article
California casinos asked to make changes as some card rooms close due to coronavirus outbreak
(California) -- The action was intense Friday at a Baccarat table inside the Red Hawk Casino as eight players, most of them elderly, sat elbow to elbow placing bets...
3/2/2020
article
Calif. Need Not Shield Tribal Card Games, 9th Circ. Told [sub req]
(California) -- California asked the Ninth Circuit on Friday to reject three tribes' bid to revive their suit contending the state is wrongly allowing nontribal card...
2/25/2020
article
HAWAIIAN GARDENS: California AG Becerra Took Over $500,000 From Tribal Casinos, Now His Agency is Paying Them Back
(California) -- In June 2019, Hews Media Group-Los Cerritos Community News exclusively reported on several large California Tribal Casinos giving nearly $300,000 to...
article
4 things that may be coming to a casino near you, including beer
(California) -- Over the span of only a couple decades Southern California’s casinos have grown from small-scale gaming operations to full-fledged resorts boasting...
article
California Lottery officials shortchanged schools by millions, state audit says
(California) -- The management of the California Lottery was sharply criticized Tuesday by state officials, who released a scathing audit alleging that the agency...
2/13/2020
article
Yes, that casino you saw in that movie or Netflix comedy is in Southern California
(California) -- Some of Southern California’s casinos have reached iconic status with their giant hotel towers, expansive gaming floors and Vegas-style decor, so...
article
City Attorney Is Investigating Private Companies That Allegedly 'Funneled' Money to DPW Holiday Parties
(California) -- Subpoenas issued Wednesday by the City Attorney's Office for records and emails from eight private companies and non-profits appear to relate in part...
2/11/2020
press release
Largest California Tribal Gaming Association Announces Support for Sports Betting Initiative at the 25th Western Indian Gaming Conference
(California) -- Celebrating a quarter century, more than 450 tribal leaders, regulators, industry professionals and policy experts, gathered at the 25th annual Western...
1/27/2020
article
LAFCo approves annexing Middletown Rancheria land into Callayomi County Water District
(California) -- The Lake Local Area Formation Commission has approved a proposal to annex Middletown Rancheria land into the Callayomi County Water District in order to...
1/19/2020
article
SCHUETZ: The California Legislature: A Parliament of Whores
(California) -- Kyle Kirkland is a card room owner in California, and also serves as the president of the California Gaming Association, a group that represents card...
1/18/2020
article
From decor to dining, here’s what Southern California’s casinos are doing for Lunar New Year
(California) -- Lunar New Year is often celebrated with games of chance not only because it’s considered an auspicious time by people who celebrate it, but also...
1/17/2020
article
California Bureau of Gambling Control Releases Updated Proposals on House-Banked Casino Games
(California) -- After over one year of talks and deliberations, the major California gaming regulator California Bureau of Gambling Control has released a new collection...
1/8/2020
article
Senator Dodd Introduces California Racing Safety Bill
(California) -- California Sen. Bill Dodd introduced legislation in the state Jan. 7 aimed at improving horse racing safety and building on last year's reforms. Dodd...
1/7/2020
article
Tribes Say Calif. Stuck In 'Catch-22' In Card Game Rights Suit [sub req]
(California) -- Two tribes urged the Ninth Circuit on Monday to revive a suit claiming California is wrongly allowing nontribal cardrooms to offer blackjack, baccarat...
1/3/2020
article
Tribes Ask 9th Circ. To Review Card Game Exclusivity [sub req]
(California) -- Three tribes have asked the Ninth Circuit to revive their suit accusing California of failing to enforce a ban on "banking and percentage" card...
12/30/2019
article
What’s coming to casinos in 2020: New restaurants, hotels and more
(California) -- In 2020, expect more growth and development at Southern California casinos. Expect lavish new hotels, more gaming space and additional restaurants. Some...
12/28/2019
article
Police shut down suspected illegal casino in Bakersfield
(California) -- About 12:40 a.m. Friday, Bakersfield Police Department officers were conducting a patrol check at 203 East California Ave. Investigating officers found a...
12/19/2019
press release
STATEMENT: CNIGA Chairman James Siva on Card Club Claims
(California) -- “The card clubs are engaged in a desperate attempt to mislead regulators and the public. We commend the Attorney General and the Bureau of Gambling...
Other Blog Posts by This Author7/10/2017
Dave Palermo: Tribal Anger Grows Over Card Room Games
(California) -- American Indian tribes operating casinos are demanding that California gambling regulators limit contractual agreements between card rooms and firms...
7/4/2017
Dave Palermo: DOJ Suspends Card Room Rotation Rule
(California) -- California gambling regulators are at least temporarily suspending a controversial card room rule that the player-dealer position in high stakes versions...
6/26/2017
Dave Palermo: Gathering Tribes to Discuss Dispute with Card Rooms, Regulators
(California) -- The questionable legality of banked games operated by California card rooms and the apparent inability of state regulators to monitor and police the...
8/17/2016
Dave Palermo: Lytle’s Letter Will Linger Over a Troubled Gambling Regulatory System
(California) -- Card room consulting and ownership licenses held by California’s onetime chief gambling enforcement officer were revoked in a stipulated agreement...
7/5/2016
Dave Palermo: Tribes Angry at New Card Club Rules
(California) -- New rules for banked table games at California card rooms will not prevent what American Indian tribes contend are illegal games that violate their...
5/14/2016
Dave Palermo: Lytle Admits to Wrongdoing, Relinquishes Card Room Licenses
(California) -- California’s former gambling enforcement chief has agreed to revocation of his licenses as a card room owner and consultant following his admission...
4/24/2016
Dave Palermo: California Tribes Working with Interior to Recover Native Lands
(USA) -- California’s American Indian tribes are reacquiring and placing in federal trust ancestral lands lost since European settlement, a trend crucial to...
1/13/2016
Dave Palermo: Tribes Looking for Unity on DFS, I-Poker
(California) -- Momentum to get a Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) bill out of the California Legislature is bullying efforts to legalize Internet poker, much to the dismay of...
9/8/2015
Dave Palermo: A New Era Emerging in Tribal/Labor Relations
(California) -- The united stand California’s American Indians took against organized labor intrusion into tribal governance 15 years ago is rapidly dissipating as...
7/27/2015
Dave Palermo: GOP Using GAO Audit to Criticize Tribal Casino Regulations
(Washington D.C.) -- Republican senators are using a General Accountability Office audit of the National Indian Gaming Commission to booster their belief the American...
6/29/2015
Dave Palermo: Tribes Cite ‘Illegal’ Card Room Games in Questioning State Regulatory Resources
(California) -- The inability of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prevent what he called “illegal” activity in California card rooms indicate the agency...
5/30/2015
Dave Palermo: California Needs ‘Hard Look’ at Gambling Regulations, Lopes Says
(California) -- California’s top gambling industry regulator, in announcing his retirement Thursday, said the state should “take a hard look” at its...
3/4/2015
Dave Palermo: Lopes, Littleton Recuse Themselves from Lytle Licensing Case
(California) -- The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) chairman has recused himself from deliberating the licensing of former industry enforcement director...
3/1/2015
Dave Palermo: I-Poker Prospects Looks Dim Despite Gray/Hall Alliance
(California) -- Despite optimism generated by companion Senate/Assembly bills seeking Internet poker in California, it remains unlikely legislation will make it out of...
2/15/2015
Dave Palermo: Tribal Moves on Tracks, ‘Bad Actors’ Does Not Bode Well for Online Poker
(California) -- The decision last week by three California tribes to embrace licensing racing associations and softening “bad actor” language in proposed...
2/13/2015
Dave Palermo: Three More Tribes Embrace Tracks on Internet Poker
(California) -- Three politically powerful California tribes and 24 card rooms are recommending to state Assembly sponsors of Internet poker bills that “bad actor...
2/8/2015
Dave Palermo: Tribes Divided into Three Groups on Internet Poker in California
(California) -- What was described last year as a coalition of a dozen American Indian tribes united on legislative language to enact an Internet poker bill in...
1/27/2015
Dave Palermo: ‘Let’s Revisit Bifurcated Regulatory System,’ Gatto says
(California) -- The effectiveness of California’s politically bifurcated gambling regulatory system and its enforcement arm under the state Attorney General should...
1/22/2015
Dave Palermo: New California Draft Poker Bill Includes Race Tracks
(California) -- A second draft bill to legalize Internet poker in California that would include the pari-mutuel racing industry along with American Indian tribes and...
1/20/2015
Dave Palermo: Potential Conflict In AG’s Lytle Licensing Investigation
(California) -- California gambling regulatory officials who will rule on the licensing of a former casino enforcement chief accused of jeopardizing a $119 million card...
1/15/2015
Dave Palermo: Lytle Corruption Probe May Hurt I-Poker Effort
(California) -- An investigation into alleged corruption in the California gambling enforcement agency may hurt attempts to get legislative approval of online poker,...
10/6/2014
Dave Palermo: GAO Casino Audit Concerns Tribal Regulators
(Washington D.C.) -- A federal audit of American Indian casinos is generating concern among tribal officials who fear the report will suggest a need for broader...
3/2/2014
Dave Palermo: Online Gambling Imminent, But Concerns Remain
(California) -- With the Internet poker debate moving to the Assembly side of the California Legislature, American Indian leaders and lobbyists are expressing renewed...
2/23/2014
Dave Palermo: Progress on Land/Trust in California, But There’s a Ways to Go
(California) -- American Indian tribes are being told California Gov. Jerry Brown will monitor what has been a series of letters from Attorney General (AG) Kamala Harris...
9/15/2013
Dave Palermo: NIGC opinion crucial to Bay Mills case
(Washington D.C.) -- A 2010 opinion by the federal Indian gambling regulatory agency that it has no jurisdiction over a tiny, Vanderbilt, Mich., casino could lead to a...
8/27/2013
Dave Palermo: Lytton Band of Pomo Indians Leave The California Tribal Business Alliance (CTBA)
(California) -- The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians, operators of San Pablo Lytton Casino, a non-compacted, Class II casino near San Francisco, is no longer a member of the...
8/25/2013
Dave Palermo: Tribes close, yet so far on Internet consensus
(California) -- Amended Internet poker legislation sponsored by California Senator Lou Correa and backed by a coalition of American Indian tribes under the leadership of...
8/11/2013
Dave Palermo: Tribes angry at California AG’s land/trust letters to Interior
(California) -- American Indians are outraged at the California Attorney General’s stepped-up opposition to tribal efforts to place land in trust for casinos, fire...
7/29/2013
Dave Palermo: Interior moves to fix a ‘broken’ federal recognition system
(Washington D.C.) -- A “discussion draft” of new rules intended to fix a broken system of federal recognition of American Indian tribes is the topic of a...
4/15/2013
Dave Palermo: Will the Internet be the ‘new Cabazon?’
(USA) --
Neil Cornelius, GM for the Osage casinos in Oklahoma, was walking to a gambling seminar in Las Vegas recently when a trade industry reporter asked him...
4/1/2013
Dave Palermo: Myriad problems with Carcieri decision
(Washington D.C.) -- The 2009 U.S. Supreme Court ruling limiting the Department of Interior’s ability to place land in trust for American Indians not “under...
3/25/2013
Dave Palermo: Tribal recognition change is in the winds
(Washington D.C.) -- Draft regulations aimed at reforming the federal administrative process for recognizing American Indian tribes will be available for review by...
3/18/2013
Dave Palermo: Fixing a broken system of tribal recognition
(Washington D.C.) -- Nor Rel Muk WintuIndians indigenous to the Klamath Mountains in Northern California have a lot in common with the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape people,...
3/11/2013
Dave Palermo: Gambling and Tribal Recognition Policy
(Washington D.C.) -- Considering that gambling has pretty much hijacked every aspect of federal American Indian policy, it comes as no surprise it would have a major...
3/4/2013
Dave Palermo: Tribes have cleaned up a “sin” industry
(Nevada) -- One of the last of more than 20 years of conversations I had with the late University of Nevada gambling scholar Bill Eadington had to do with the fact...
1/4/2013
Dave Palermo: Tribes, IRS Making Progress on Tax Issues
(Washington D.C.) -- It was during a September hearing of the House Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs that Rep. Don Young, D-Alaska, grew a bit impatient...
11/5/2012
Dave Palermo: Self-governance guides BIA appointee Kevin Washburn
(Washington D.C.) -- Kevin Washburn is the son of Shirley Stark, an Oklahoma Chickasaw woman and tribal elder, a single parent and retired public health professional who...
9/30/2012
Dave Palermo: A tribal perspective on problem gambling
(USA) -- Clinicians will tell you that problem and pathological gamblers are largely co-morbid, meaning they have compulsive behavioral problems beyond an inability to...
9/23/2012
Dave Palermo: Gambling is the elephant in the Carcieri debate
(Washington D.C.) -- The devastating impact recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions have had on the ability of the federal government to place land in trust for American...
9/17/2012
Dave Palermo: Reid/Kyl might be ‘pretty good for tribes.’
(Washington D.C.) -- A summary of Internet poker legislation proposed by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and John Kyl (R-Ariz.) leaked to the press last week...
9/10/2012
Dave Palermo: Legal sports wagering in California an interesting proposition
(California) -- Should Congress or the U.S. Supreme Court reverse federal law prohibiting sports wagering, there appears to be a difference in opinion as to who might...
9/3/2012
Dave Palermo: Much interest, little consensus on Internet at Shakopee meeting
(Minnesota) -- The fact more than 200 tribal leaders, lawyers, lobbyists and vendors gathered Aug. 22 at Mystic Lakes, Minn., to discuss Internet gambling speaks volumes...
8/29/2012
Dave Palermo: No leadership from tribal federal regulatory on Internet gambling
(Washington D.C.) -- A failure by the top federal regulator for American Indian casinos to take a leadership role on Internet wagering annoys tribal leaders who fear...
8/27/2012
Dave Palermo: AKAKA FIX: Mixing the Internet with a Carcieri fix can be tricky
(Washington D.C.) -- Widespread speculation among Capitol Hill insiders is that Sen. Daniel Akaka, (D-Hawaii), is hoping to use draft Internet legislation as leverage to...
8/21/2012
Dave Palermo: Myth of the rich Indian is just that: a myth
(Washington D.C.) -- News from federal regulators that American Indian casino revenues rose 3 percent in 2011 pointed out once again that despite the “myth of the...
8/19/2012
Dave Palermo: Patchak is the latest in a troublesome trend
(Washington D.C.) -- The June U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving Michigan landowner David Patchak and the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Potawatomi, owners of the Gun...
|
visionary sponsor advertisementMost Popular Storiessponsor advertisement |