Story perspectives

New Gaming Regulations Risk 13,000 Jobs in California

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

New regulations approved by Attorney General Rob Bonta take effect April 1 and could eliminate blackjack-style games, risking thousands of jobs and local tax revenue.
Kyle Kirkland of the California Gaming Association warns 13,000 jobs could be lost, with cities relying on cardroom revenue facing bankruptcy.
Tribal operators support regulations, claiming they address illegal gaming practices.
The California Gaming Association is considering legal action, viewing the changes as politically motivated.

1 of 1

Story summary

New regulations approved by Attorney General Rob Bonta take effect April 1 and could eliminate blackjack-style games, risking thousands of jobs and local tax revenue.
Kyle Kirkland of the California Gaming Association warns 13,000 jobs could be lost, with cities relying on cardroom revenue facing bankruptcy.
Tribal operators support regulations, claiming they address illegal gaming practices.
The California Gaming Association is considering legal action, viewing the changes as politically motivated.