The state of California does not have any laws that allow for the operation of sportsbooks or other forms of sports gambling. However, some offshore sites accept bets from California residents. It is not recommended that California residents participate in sports gambling since these sites are not regulated by the state and residents may be subject to federal prosecution if caught.
It is likely that the first step towards legalizing California sports betting will be another vote on a proposition that is proposed by either the California legislature or its people. A constitutional amendment is likely to be needed in California to bring sports betting to its residents as a legislative solution without a successful ballot measure is highly unlikely. Voters will have to go to the polls again.
Yes, there are restrictions on the types of sports gambling allowed in California. All forms of sports betting are prohibited except for pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing and fantasy sports contests. Additionally, tribal casinos may offer certain forms of sports betting under specific conditions. It is important to note that online sports betting is not currently legal in California. But, brace yourselves California sports betting aficionados! Another effort to legalize the activity could already be on the horizon. The last two campaigns for its legalization in November 2022 were thwarted by ballot-casting citizens, and there still remains opposition from Indian tribes that manage the state’s casinos and racetracks. If an understanding is met this year, legislation could be passed – albeit, not earlier than 2024.
Unfortunately, online sports betting is not available to residents of California. The state has yet to legalize and regulate the activity, so there are no legal online sportsbooks operating in the state. However, there are still some options for those who wish to bet on sports in California. Offshore sportsbooks offer their services to Californians, though they come with certain risks that should be taken into consideration before signing up. Additionally, many land-based casinos and racetracks offer sports betting opportunities as well.
It is currently illegal for Californians to gamble on sports. Since 2018, the state has been discussing legalizing sports betting, and some bills are in the works that could allow it to become legal. If you live in California, you will have to find other ways to gamble on sports until then.
