Proposition 26 would change the California Constitution to permit in-person sports betting at racetracks and tribal casinos in California. Roulette would also be allowed at tribal casinos. These businesses would make payments to the state to support regulation and administration of the new law. In addition, the measure would enable citizens to file civil lawsuits against those they believe are breaking specific state gambling laws. This measure was put on the ballot by petition signatures.

Fiscal Impact

Proposition 26 would impact both state and local government revenues and costs. The actual size of these effects, however, is uncertain and would depend on how the proposition is interpreted and implemented. For example, it is unclear if tribal-state compacts changed to allow for sports betting would require additional payments to local governments. The fiscal effects would also depend on the number of people who choose to make sports bets and how often the new civil enforcement method is used. 

What Your Vote Means

According to the California State Legislative Analyst’s office:

A YES vote on this measure means: Four racetracks could offer in-person sports betting. Racetracks would pay the state a share of sports bets made. Tribal casinos could offer in-person sports betting, roulette, and games played with dice (such as craps) if permitted by individual tribal gambling agreements with the state. Tribes would be required to support state sports betting regulatory costs at casinos. People and entities would have a new way to seek enforcement of certain state gambling laws.

A NO vote on this measure means: Sports betting would continue to be illegal in California. Tribal casinos would continue to be unable to offer roulette and games played with dice. No changes would be made to the way state gambling laws are enforced.

Voter Information