In January, a second attempt to legalise sport betting in California was unsuccessful after the two ballots that were intended to give tribes exclusive rights in California were removed due to fierce tribal opposition.
Eagle1 Acquisitions Corp., the group that backed a proposal to legalise sport betting in California had amended its ballot initiative several times in December to try to increase tribal support. However, their efforts failed.
California Nations Indian Gaming Association responded by saying that the failure of the attempt to legalise sport betting without the involvement of tribal members should be a warning for future attempts.
Giles, however, believes that there will be greater success in the future when it comes to legalising sports betting. He cites the Super Bowl 2027 in Los Angeles, as the main reason for rushing a bill through before this date.
Giles said that there is a clear path towards online sports betting for California – and it begins with the tribes. The Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention will be held at the Anaheim Convention Centre, California from April 8-11. I don’t believe it will happen as many people claim, but there are positive signs such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and their decision to attend our tradeshow at the Anaheim Convention Centre.
We do not set a date for when the tribes are going to exercise their sovereignty authority. Instead, we will work with the State, the commercial gaming industry, and tribal communities in order to find a path forward. The most important thing is to maintain our tribal gaming industry and communities.
The year 2023 is crucial for tribal sovereignty
The year 2023 was a pivotal one in the fight of tribal nations for sovereignty within the US, as the state governments sought to gain more control over Indian land.
Tribes won a major victory this summer when a federal court of appeals reinstated the compact between Florida and the Seminole Tribe. This effectively created a tribal sports betting monopoly for the entire state.
The US Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia opted not to rehear the case in September. In November, the Seminole Tribe relaunched its mobile betting service in Florida with Hard Rock Bet. Florida Supreme Court rejected the motion of pari-mutuel gambling operator West Flagler Associates, which sought to suspend Hard Rock Bet.
The Department of the Interior announced in February 2024 that it would be updating federal regulations similar to Florida’s, which will improve the “clarity” and “transparency” of Indian Gaming Compacts.
Giles applauded the DOI move and stated: “We’re pleased that the Biden/Harris Administration is showing commitment to Indian Country. They will also provide a solid platform for growth in business, which we are very optimistic about.
The Indian Country has never been stronger and our tribal leaders will continue to protect the rights of tribes.
Future of tribal gaming
The National Indian Gaming Commission’s annual report showed revenues in 2022 rose 4.9% to $40.9bn (PS33.0bn/EUR38.2bn). This $1.9bn increase is the largest ever.
The tribal gaming sector has recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic and is now poised for prosperity.
Giles believes tribal gaming is going to continue doing well. He also says that he will be working with people who share its values, and are willing to offer fresh ideas.
Giles said that “tribal gaming’s strength will be maintained by a strong regulatory framework, and a long-term sustainable approach towards the future of the industry.”
Tribal communities welcome new business ideas, and are always open to innovation. “We are seeking companies that not only have a good understanding of Indian Country but can also bring in new ideas and technologies to continue offering world-class services to our customers.”
Tribal Protection
Even though the Indian gaming industry continues to grow, there are concerns about politicians and commercial interests who want to take advantage of tribal gaming success.
Giles is confident that the tribal gaming industry will remain competitive as long as everyone works together.
Giles added, “Protection is strongest when tribes are united in their fight against those who would undermine tribal sovereignty.” The tribal gaming industry has been very successful, and it is a sustainable business.
It doesn’t mean that we don’t want to speak to the companies or their representatives. “I firmly believe a cooperative approach born out of respect for tribal governments and their institutions will benefit everyone.”
