The SGLA has criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s signing of AB 831 into law, basically banning online social games with sweepstakes promotions in California. The state is following within the footsteps of Montana and New Jersey, regardless of opposition from California tribal nations and other relevant groups.
That features tribes like Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, the Sherwood Valley Rancheria of Pomo Indians, the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, and Massive Lagoon Rancheria. They argue that the laws will restrict financial alternatives accessible to tribes that don’t have the identical backing and sources that the wealthier gaming tribes do.
The SGLA additionally cited analysis from Eilers & Krejcik that estimated AB 831 would instantly remove $1 billion from California’s annual financial system, with the state reportedly shedding out on not less than $200-$300 million in taxes annually.
If Governor Newsom indicators AB 831 into regulation, on-line social video games with sweepstakes promotions will probably be banned within the state of California, taking alongside $1 billion in contributions to the state.
Californians should act TODAY. Inform Governor Newsom to VETO AB 831: https://t.co/EIxBJON0hH pic.twitter.com/C15gPFpOrz
— Social Gaming Management Alliance (SGLA) (@SGLeadership) October 10, 2025
“Voters, gamers who love on-line social video games, California tribes, and on-line social video games operators all made their place clear: they didn’t need a ban on this fashionable, secure type of leisure,” stated Jeff Duncan, Government Director of SGLA.
“We hoped that Governor Newsom would see previous the anti-competitive efforts of the highly effective, well-funded tribes behind this invoice and veto AB 831, however he selected the simple, short-sighted path and turned his again on alternative, innovation and financial features.”
Sweepstakes stance of Gavin Newsom criticized
In addition to the direct impression on the financial system and the tribes, the SGLA went on to argue that the invoice itself was “poorly designed”, with “zero business session and was backed by conflicted proponents”. The group pointed to a nationwide ballot with an outsized pattern of California voters as proof that the individuals of the state don’t need the ban.
It cited that 85% of California voters agreed the state ought to modernize and replace legal guidelines to control and tax on-line social gaming, which isn’t in step with the outright ban that has been handed. The SGLA said that it could proceed to advertise “wise regulatory frameworks” in step with voter calls for, financial development, and with a view of defending client rights.
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