California Tribes Delay Sports Betting Push Until 2028

California’s tribal leaders have made a groundbreaking decision on sports betting legalization.

Despite the growing pressure from unregulated sweepstakes and commercial operators, tribal leaders have announced that they will not pursue sports betting legalization in 2026.

Their focus lies on unity, sovereignty, and the long-term growth of tribal gaming. With more than 100 tribes in California, creating a unified plan is paramount.

Learn how this decision will impact California’s gaming landscape and what’s next for sports betting in Indian Country.

California Tribes Postpone Sports Betting Legalization Until 2028

3 Key Points:

1. No 2026 Ballot for Sports Betting: California tribes have decided to postpone sports betting legalization until 2028.
2. Unity Is Key: Tribes emphasize the importance of consensus among all gaming and non-gaming communities.
3. Sweepstakes Pressure: Unregulated sweepstakes companies remain a growing concern for tribal gaming exclusivity.

California tribal leaders have decided not to push for sports betting legalization in 2026. Speaking at the ICE conference in Barcelona, leaders emphasized the need for a united approach before moving forward. Despite the growing popularity of sports betting nationwide, tribes agree that the timing isn’t right.

Catalina Chacon, councilmember of the Pechanga Band of Mission Indians, made it clear: “The data is telling us the time isn’t right for 2026.” Leaders from various tribes, including the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, echoed this sentiment. They stressed that any gaming expansion must prioritize tribal sovereignty and include all communities, including non-gaming tribes.

The Road to 2028: Building Consensus

Reaching a consensus among California’s 100+ tribes is no small task. These tribes range from large, wealthy organizations to smaller, rural groups. They collectively defeated Proposition 27 in 2022, which sought to legalize digital sports betting. Now, their goal is to create a unified proposal that benefits all tribes.

The Revenue Sharing Trust Fund (RSTF) will play a significant role in these discussions. Established in 1999, it ensures non-gaming tribes receive financial support. Currently, gaming tribes contribute $1.1 million annually to the fund. As sports betting and potentially online casinos become part of the conversation, tribes may need to revise how revenue is distributed.

The Impact of Sweepstakes and Unregulated Operators

Unregulated sweepstakes operators are adding pressure to California’s gaming landscape. These businesses, which advertise heavily, claim to operate legally. However, tribal leaders argue that they violate state laws and infringe on tribal sovereignty.

“They are infringing on both our exclusivity and sovereignty,” said Johnny Hernandez, vice chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Moderator Jason Giles noted that sweepstakes ads are fueling the urgency for legal solutions.

Despite this, tribes remain steadfast in their decision not to rush legalization. They are committed to creating a comprehensive plan that ensures long-term growth and protects their interests.

A Deliberate Path Forward

California tribes have made it clear—they won’t pursue sports betting legalization in 2026. Instead, they’re focusing on unity, sovereignty, and a strategic plan for the future. By delaying their push to 2028, they aim to build a stronger foundation for tribal gaming while addressing the challenges posed by unregulated operators.

The decision underscores the importance of thoughtful planning in a rapidly evolving industry. For California, the road to legal sports betting will be a journey shaped by collaboration, respect for tribal sovereignty, and a shared vision for the future.