Largest California Tribal Gaming Association Formally Opposes Sports Wagering Initiatives

Sacramento, CA (November 16, 2023) — Today the 52 members of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association voted to oppose two sports wagering initiatives that were recently filed with the California Secretary of State’s office. The vote follows a meeting between the initiative proponents and the CNIGA Executive Committee.

“The entire effort surrounding these initiatives was handled abhorrently by the initiative sponsors,” said CNIGA Chairman James Siva. “It is hard not to be offended when listening to these individuals speak. This is another example of outside influences trying to divide and conquer Indian tribes. We will not let history repeat itself.

“California tribes have been successfully engaged in the gaming market for more than four decades. This didn’t happen by mistake, nor without careful consideration on the effects to our members and our surrounding communities. Tribal Leaders are the experts, and we will decide what is best for our people.

“Now that the sponsors have heard directly from tribes that their efforts are not supported, we call on them to drop the initiatives as they have pledged to do if tribes were to oppose them. Our opposition could not be more clear and is irrevocable.”

CNIGA was founded in 1988 and is comprised of 52 federally recognized tribal governments and associate members who are dedicated to the tribal government gaming industry. CNIGA is dedicated to the purpose of preserving and protecting Indian gaming on federally recognized Indian lands. It acts as a planning and coordinating agency for legislative, policy, legal and communications efforts on behalf of its members and serves as an industry forum for information and resources.

SOURCE: California Nations Indian Gaming Association.