California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) Seeks Clarity on Daily Fantasy Sports and Pick’em Games Amid Sports Betting Debate
The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA), representing 52 member tribes and a key player in the state’s gambling industry, is actively shaping the future of gambling regulation in California.
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While CNIGA is currently content with the status quo—especially as interactive wagering and sports betting legalization efforts have stalled—the group is now focusing on daily fantasy sports (DFS) and pick’em games.
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CNIGA has submitted a letter to California Attorney General Rob Bonta questioning the legality of daily fantasy sports, especially targeting pick’em game platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. The association argues these platforms resemble illegal sports gambling more than traditional fantasy sports.
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Their main points are:
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Pick’em games do not involve managing fantasy teams but rather betting on individual player performances.
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Bets can be placed on athletes from unrelated sports, increasing regulatory concerns.
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CNIGA welcomes Attorney General Bonta’s efforts to clarify the legal status of DFS, but sports betting legalization will likely not happen this year.
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The association seeks to maintain control over any future legalization process, aiming for tribal inclusion and benefit.
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Pressure from CNIGA contributed to the withdrawal of a November ballot proposal to legalize sports betting, backed by Kasey Thompson and Reeve Collins. CNIGA opposed this move, fearing premature legislation would hurt long-term prospects.
Overall, CNIGA is positioning itself to remain a powerful influence in California’s evolving gambling landscape, especially around online sports betting and fantasy sports regulation.
