California

Is Sports Betting Legal in California?

The future of sports betting in California remains uncertain, leaving residents and visitors to use DFS (Daily Fantasy Sports) apps in the meantime. The absence of legal sports betting in the state is a significant concern, and the possibility of its future legalization continues to be a topic of intense debate.

Previously, Californians decisively rejected Prop 27, significantly delaying the potential legalization of sports betting until at least 2024. The vote saw a substantial margin, with 4.5 million residents voting against it compared to just over 900,000 in favor.

The two sports betting bills presented on the November 2022 ballot, along with a proposal from last year, faced overwhelming opposition from state residents and tribes, leading to their defeat. This opposition, combined with the unsuccessful 2023 initiative for California tribes to control sports betting, suggests that legalization might be pushed to 2025 or later.

The political landscape, with approximately 10 million Democrats and 5 million Republicans, highlights the ongoing uncertainty and complex dynamics around online sports betting in what could be North America’s largest betting market.

California Sports Betting Updates

June 5

Tucupita Marcano, a player for the San Diego Padres, received a lifetime ban from Major League Baseball for betting on baseball. This follows the news that Michael Kelly, a pitcher for the Oakland Athletics, and several other players were given one-year bans due to their betting activities.

April 11

After discussions at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention panel in Anaheim, operators and state tribes have agreed to collaborate on the legalization of sports betting.

California's Legalization Timeline

The path to legalizing sports betting in California has been complex and lengthy. Here’s a detailed timeline that outlines key events in this ongoing process:

April 2024

April 11: Online sports betting operators and state tribes agree to collaborate towards legalization after discussions at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention in Anaheim.

February 2024

PrizePicks argues to California Attorney General Rob Bonta that their fantasy sports games are contests of skill, not chance. Bonta had announced a review of the unregulated fantasy gaming market in California last fall.

January 2024

Sports betting will not be legalized in California in 2024 due to minimal public support and opposition from state tribes.

November 2023

The CNIGA, consisting of 52 state tribes, rejects a proposal for allowing commercial sportsbooks in California.

October 2023

Two online sports betting initiatives are filed without the consent of two state tribes.
The Pala Band of Mission Indians announces plans to submit a California online sports betting initiative.

November 2022

Propositions 26 and 27 are not approved in the November ballot, indicating a significant delay in the legalization of in-person and online sports betting.

July 2022

Californian Democrats vote against Prop 27 concerning online sports betting while remaining neutral on the in-person betting initiative led by state tribes.

June 2022

Secretary of State Weber and election officials verify that both sports betting initiatives qualify for the November ballot, setting the stage for a public vote.

May 2022

Over 40 native tribes continue to oppose the online sports betting initiative. Meanwhile, a list of 21 service organizations supports the initiative.
Over 1.6 million Californians sign the initiative to legalize online sports betting, ensuring it will be on the November ballot.

April 2022

A poll indicates the majority of California voters oppose online sports betting.

February 2022

A UC Berkeley poll finds that 45% of California voters favor sports betting, with 33% against and 22% undecided.

September 2021

A majority of California voters support online sports betting, according to a poll by Californians for Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support.

August 2021

A third initiative, supported by major industry players like DraftKings, BetMGM, and FanDuel, is filed to promote regulated sports betting and address homelessness and mental health through generated revenue.
A coalition of California cities submits a draft initiative to include regulated sports betting on the November 2022 ballot.

May 2021

The state reports that 1,061,282 signatures are valid, surpassing the required minimum to appear on the ballot.

December 2020

The Coalition to Authorize Regulated Sports Wagering files about 1.4 million signatures. Counties are not required to report the number of valid signatures due to COVID restrictions until March 2021.

September 2020

California Superior Court grants a second extension for Tribes to collect signatures for a ballot measure due to COVID-19 restrictions.

July 2020

Judge James P. Arguelles grants an extension to October for Tribes to collect signatures, citing COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

June 2020

Senator Dodd withdraws SCA 6 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and legislative deadlines.
Tribal leaders sue the state to extend their deadline for collecting signatures for a ballot measure.

March 2020

COVID-19 crisis halts all sports betting legalization efforts. Although tribes were close to collecting the necessary signatures, the lockdown prevents further action.

November 2019

18 of California’s tribes come together to file a petition to get sports betting on the November 2020 ballot.

June 2019

Senator Bill Dodd and Assemblyman Adam Gray introduce matching bills to potentially legalize sports wagering in California.

Alternatives to Online Sports Betting in California

While online sports betting is still pending in California, residents have access to several legal gambling alternatives:

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

In California, DFS is legal, although it is not officially regulated by the state. Popular DFS apps available include PrizePicks, Underdog, and Betr.

Horse Racing

Horse racing is regulated by the California Horse Racing Board, ensuring structured betting and racing practices across the state.

Lottery

The California state lottery is overseen by the Lottery Commission. Participants must be at least 18 years old to play.

Sportsbooks Expected to Come to California

FanDuel

FanDuel is a prominent player in both sports wagering and daily fantasy sports, already established in California. It is considered one of the best legal sportsbooks thanks to its sleek interface, extensive betting options, and solid technical foundation, which together provide a superior betting experience. FanDuel is available in many states and boasts one of the industry’s top mobile apps. Expect it to expand into the California sports betting market once it becomes legal.

DraftKings

DraftKings stands out as a leading name in the sports betting industry. It appeals to users with its generous bonuses, promotions, and a wide array of betting markets. The user-friendly interface of DraftKings Sportsbook makes it straightforward to place any type of bet, whether it’s a spread, total, or prop bet. Savvy bettors particularly benefit from high-value sign-up offers, promotions, codes, and daily boosts that present opportunities with positive expected value (+EV). This is an area where DraftKings excels, and it’s likely to attract users in California once sports betting becomes legal there.

BetMGM

BetMGM is a top contender in the realm of legal online sports betting, backed by the well-known MGM Resorts International. This sportsbook boasts significant brand recognition and influence in the industry. Having already launched in 13 states, BetMGM is on track to expand further, with California potentially in its sights. One of the key draws of BetMGM is its compelling promotions for both new and existing users, making it a sportsbook worth considering. For those looking to wager in states where sports betting is legalized, BetMGM represents a distinguished and reliable betting platform.

California Teams to Bet On

California boasts more professional sports teams than any other state, offering a wide variety of options for sports fans. Even if you only consider the teams at the highest level of competition in their respective sports, the state is home to an impressive lineup: three football teams, five basketball teams, five baseball teams, three hockey teams, and four soccer teams. This diversity ensures that no matter your preference, there’s a team for everyone to support in California.

Pro Sports Teams in California

NFL Betting in California

San Francisco 49ers
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Chargers

NBA Betting in California

Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Clippers
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings

MLB Betting in California

Los Angeles Dodgers
Los Angeles Angels
San Francisco Giants
Oakland Athletics
San Diego Padres

NHL Betting in California

Los Angeles Kings
Anaheim Ducks
San Jose Sharks

MLS Betting in California

Los Angeles Galaxy
Los Angeles FC
San Jose Earthquakes

College Sports Teams in CA

College Football Betting in California

USC Trojans Football
UCLA Bruins Football
Stanford Cardinal Football
California Golden Bears Football
Fresno State Bulldogs Football
San Diego State Aztecs Football
San Jose State Spartans Football

College Basketball Betting in California

UCLA Bruins Men’s Basketball
USC Trojans Men’s Basketball
California Golden Bears Men’s Basketball
Stanford Cardinal Men’s Basketball
San Diego State Aztecs Men’s Basketball
St. Mary’s Gaels Men’s Basketball
San Francisco Dons Men’s Basketball

California Casinos & (Potential) Future Sportsbook Locations

Pechanga Resort Casino Website

Pechanga Casino boasts the largest casino floor in California, with 188,000 square feet of gaming space. The casino offers over 5,000 slot machines, 158 state-of-the-art table games, a 700-seat bingo room, a non-smoking poker room, and a High Limit salon. It reopened for business on June 1.

Website: https://www.pechanga.com/
Location: 45000 Pechanga Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592
Phone: (877) 711-2946

Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa

Morongo Casino stands out as one of only six AAA four-diamond casino resorts in California, featuring 148,000 square feet of gaming space. The casino houses over 2,000 slot machines and table games. Its interior boasts a retro-1960s style, complete with a decorative ceiling and back-lit drapes, adding to the ambiance. Additionally, Morongo offers a 22-table poker room and a high-limit room for more exclusive gaming experiences.

Website: https://www.morongocasinoresort.com/
Location: 49500 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230
Phone: (951) 849-3080

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel Website

Yaamava’ Casino & Resort, located just outside of San Bernardino, offers a unique gaming experience with its various themed sections. Guests can try their luck at the Blazing 7s Blackjack Arena or immerse themselves in the Asian-inspired Lotus 8 Palace. The Rockin’ Casino area features 16 table games and over 900 slot machines, along with a dedicated High Limit section for those looking for higher stakes. For dining, options include Rock & Brews, Chingon Kitchen, Big Mo’ Cafe, and TuTu’s Food Court. Those wishing to extend their stay can relax at the nearby Bear Springs Hotel.

Website: https://www.yaamava.com/
Location: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346
Phone: (909) 864-5050

Pala Casino Spa and Resort

Operated by the Pala Band of Mission Indians, Pala Casino is located just northeast of San Diego and offers a sizable gaming experience with 86,000 square feet of space. The casino features 84 table games and over 2,200 slot machines. Additional amenities include a 500-room hotel, an expansive 11,000-square-foot spa, and Luis Rey’s Sports Bar, providing a comprehensive and luxurious entertainment environment.

Website: https://www.palacasino.com/
Location: 11154 CA-76, Pala, CA 92059
Phone: (877) 946-7252

Red Hawk Casino Website

Red Hawk Casino, perched on a hilltop just east of Sacramento, offers stunning natural views and traditional architecture. The casino features a variety of table games and over 2,000 slot machines, including a special High Limit area for those looking for higher stakes. For dining, guests can choose from Henry’s Steakhouse or Pearl Asian Cuisine, providing delicious options to satisfy any appetite during their visit.

Website: https://www.redhawkcasino.com/
Location: 1 Red Hawk Pkwy, Placerville, CA 95667
Phone: (530) 677-7000

Viejas Casino and Resort

Viejas Casino, originally established as a bingo room, continues to be renowned as one of the best bingo venues in California. It also offers a vast 133,000-square-foot gaming floor located in the mountains east of San Diego. The casino is equipped with over 2,500 slot machines, 86 table games, and an off-track betting facility. Additional amenities at Viejas include a coffee bar, three restaurants, and convenient access to a nearby outlet mall, providing a comprehensive entertainment and shopping experience.

Website: https://viejas.com/
Location: 5000 Willows Rd, Alpine, CA 91901
Phone: (619) 445-5400

Chumash Casino Resort

Chumash Casino, nestled in the heart of wine country, offers an expansive gaming experience with 115,000 square feet of casino space. It features 2,300 slot machines and over 45 table games. The property includes a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel with 320 rooms, enhanced by a 135-foot tower that offers guests breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Valley. Additionally, visitors can enjoy bingo at the Samala Showroom, rounding out a diverse entertainment offering.

Website: https://www.chumashcasino.com/
Location: 3400 CA-246, Santa Ynez, CA 93460
Phone: (805) 686-0855

Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa

Located just outside the San Jacinto Mountains near Palm Springs, Agua Caliente Casino offers a slice of paradise for gamblers with its extensive array of gaming options including slot machines, a private poker room, and numerous poker tables. The resort boasts a variety of dining options such as two cafes, a deli, a steakhouse, and a buffet. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, a bar and grill, and live entertainment to enhance the guest experience. During the pandemic, the casino is operating at 50% capacity, with mandatory mask wearing to ensure safety for all visitors and staff.

Website: https://www.hotwatercasino.com/
Location: 32-250 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (888) 999-1995

Harrah’s Southern California Resort and Casino

Harrah’s SoCal, part of the extensive Harrah’s portfolio which includes 50 properties and is the home of ESPN’s World Series of Poker, is operated by Caesars Entertainment. The area was renamed Funner in 2016, underscoring Harrah’s commitment to creating a fun and engaging environment. The venue features nearly 60,000 square feet of casino gaming space with over 1,000 slot machines. For dining, guests have a wide array of options including Che Bello, ‘Ritas Cantina, Earl of Sandwich, SR76 Beerworks, Fiore, and several others, ensuring a variety of culinary experiences.

Website: https://harrahssocal.com/
Location: 777 S Resort Dr, Valley Center, CA 92082
Phone: (760) 751-3100

Blue Lake Casino & Hotel

Blue Lake Casino, renowned as one of the top gaming destinations in Northern California, is situated just a few miles from Eureka, nestled by the picturesque Blue Lake in the Redwoods of Humboldt County. The casino offers a diverse gaming experience with 600 slot machines, live poker, and table games available around the clock. For dining, guests have several options including the upscale Alice’s Restaurant, Sushi Blue for sushi lovers, the Lily Pad Cafe for casual bites, and the Wave Lounge for drinks and entertainment. This variety ensures a well-rounded visit for all who come to Blue Lake Casino.

Website: https://www.bluelakecasino.com/
Location: 777 Casino Way, Blue Lake, CA 95525
Phone: (707) 668-9770

Conclusion

California sports betting is not yet legal, but the state continues to explore legalization options. In the meantime, residents can engage in daily fantasy sports, horse racing, and social casinos. Use promo code WINDAILY for exclusive bonuses and promotions. Always bet responsibly and enjoy the variety of gaming options available in the Golden State.