Pb77As of my last update in early 2023, online betting in California is a complex issue due to the state’s laws and regulations. While some forms of online gambling are legal, such as Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and certain online poker platforms, sports betting and other forms of online casino gambling are not permitted through state-authorized online platforms.
Here’s a breakdown of the current legal landscape:
1. **Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS):** DFS is legal in California, with operators like DraftKings and FanDuel operating within the state. DFS is considered a game of skill rather than chance, which allows it to operate under different legal standards.
2. **Online Poker:** Online poker was legal in California through the use of “intrastate” poker websites, which meant that the poker games were confined to players within the state. However, the situation is subject to change, and there have been efforts to regulate online poker further at the state level.
3. **Sports Betting:** As of the last update, sports betting was not legal online in California. However, retail sports betting was legalized in November 2022 through a voter-approved initiative (Proposition 26 and Proposition 27). These propositions allow for sports betting at tribal casinos and horse racing tracks, and potentially through online platforms via tribal compacts, but the exact regulations and implementation were still being worked out.
4. **Online Casinos:** Online casinos, which include games like slots, blackjack, roulette, and other traditional casino games, are not legal in California.
It’s important to note that the legal status of online betting can change due to new laws, regulations, or voter initiatives. Additionally, federal laws also play a role in the regulation of online gambling. For the most current information, it’s best to consult the latest state laws or legal experts in California. Always ensure that any online betting activity is conducted through legal and regulated channels to avoid legal repercussions.
