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Collaboration between California Tribes and the Small Business Administration to Address Sweepstakes Casinos May Benefit Sports Betting Enthusiasts

Unlawful sweepstakes gambling is under attack as California's native tribes and the Sports Betting Alliance unite to combat its proliferation.

Collaboration of California Indigenous Groups and the SBA Targeting Sweepstakes Casinos May Benefit...
Collaboration of California Indigenous Groups and the SBA Targeting Sweepstakes Casinos May Benefit Sports Betting Enthusiasts

Collaboration between California Tribes and the Small Business Administration to Address Sweepstakes Casinos May Benefit Sports Betting Enthusiasts

In the digital age, the world of entertainment has seen a significant shift, with casino-style games and sports predictions now accessible through online platforms using virtual tokens. However, this convenience comes with a cost for tribal casinos, who are losing revenue as more people opt for these unregulated online sweepstakes platforms instead of visiting land-based facilities.

Bill Kudon, a prominent figure in the gaming industry, recently compared the unregulated gaming to a pandemic on a podcast. Kudon, frustrated with the situation, points out that while his group's members spend millions in licensing fees, deal with high tax rates, and push through legislation, the sweepstakes casinos avoid these requirements.

These platforms, almost identical to online casinos and sportsbooks, do not require a license to operate in the state. The lack of regulation has led to concerns from various gaming associations, with the American Gaming Association (AGA) urging regulators to address the sweepstakes industry.

The situation is particularly pressing in cities like Riverside, San Diego, and Palm Springs in California, where sweepstakes casinos have been allowed to operate. The activities of the Indian Gaming Association and the Sports Betting Alliance have been affected by these developments.

IGA Chairman Rocha has referenced past issues with the SBA, stating that it is time for commercial operators and sovereign nations to collaborate and tackle this issue. The stakes are high, with some of these platforms offering real money prizes in the form of redemptions, further blurring the lines between traditional gambling and these sweepstakes platforms.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that a reevaluation of the current regulatory framework is necessary to ensure fair competition and protect the revenue of tribal casinos. The future of the industry hangs in the balance, with all parties hoping for a collaborative solution to this pressing issue.

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