The party voted to oppose Proposition 27 while remaining neutral on Proposition 26. Proposition 27 seeks to legalize online sports betting while Proposition 26 would legalize retail sports betting at racetracks and casinos. The announcement was welcomed by the state’s tribes who have been opposed to any legislative moves that would allow commercial interests to take a role in online sports betting.
Reid Milanovich, tribal chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, said in a press statement following the party’s announcement:
California Democrats Vote Against Online Sports Betting Ballot MeasureCalifornia Democratic Party Native American Caucus First Vice Chair Dr. Joely Proudfit added:
California Democrats Vote Against Online Sports Betting Ballot Measure“There is no question that Proposition 27 is an assault on tribal sovereignty. Proposition 27 threatens decades of progress for California’s Indians, erodes Tribal sovereignty, and threatens the future economic sustainability of California’s indigenous people.”
It’s up against Proposition 26 that is backed by the state’s 61 tribes — California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative. This would allow tribal casinos and four horse tracks to offer in-person sports betting.
California Democrats Vote Against Online Sports Betting Ballot Measure industry could be worth upwards of $3 billion per year.
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