California’s journey toward legalizing online sports betting is gaining momentum once again, fueled by a coalition of Native American tribes advocating for a “YES Pledge.” This initiative aims to establish a tribally governed framework for online sports betting, signaling a potential shift in the state’s gambling landscape.
Advocates Push for a Tribally Led Legalization Framework
The “YES Pledge: Support for Online Sports Betting in California” is circulated by the Sports Betting Alliance’s Tribal Advisory Council. It encourages tribes to collaborate to secure voter or legislative approval of a tribally governed online sports betting framework.
The pledge promotes cooperation with the SBA, industry experts, and legislators to develop a solution legalizing online sports betting. DraftKings and FanDuel support the initiative. At the Indian Gaming Tradeshow, they proposed a single tribal entity to manage operations.
They also commit to paying non-gaming tribes at least $10 million annually if online sports betting becomes legal. Tribal leaders developed and advanced the pledge to benefit all tribes, keeping operators informed but not involved in drafting.
Jeff Grubbe, former Chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, publicly supports the pledge,
“This pledge has been shaped, discussed, and advanced by tribal leaders to benefit all tribes.”
He added that commercial operators were informed but did not contribute to drafting the pledge.
Other California Tribes’ Opposition: Concerns Over Corporate Influence
Despite the support from some tribes and commercial operators, the “YES Pledge” faces opposition from other tribal groups.
The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), the state’s largest tribal gaming organization, has distanced itself from the document. CNIGA argues that the pledge is a corporate-driven maneuver and does not align with the interests of all tribes.
This divide highlights the complex dynamics within California’s tribal communities regarding online sports betting. Some tribes see the pledge as a path to economic benefits and sovereignty, while others view it as a threat to autonomy.
As discussions continue, the future of online sports betting in California remains uncertain. The outcome depends on tribal leaders reaching a consensus that balances economic opportunities with preserving cultural and operational sovereignty.
For now, California residents await a resolution that could reshape gambling and allow access to US online sportsbooks in the state.