Governor Signs Senator Archuleta’s SB 451 to Strengthen California’s Illegal Gambling Enforcement
For Immediate Release Contact: Fred Zermeno (213) 219-1060
Governor Signs Senator Archuleta’s SB 451 to Strengthen California’s Illegal Gambling Enforcement of Casitas
Sacramento, CA – Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) is pleased to announce Governor Newsom’s signing of SB 451, legislation that clarifies that the California Department of Justice (DOJ) has authority to investigate suspected criminal violations of prohibited gambling activities, including those occurring outside of licensed gambling establishments.
SB 451 closes a major enforcement gap that currently allows illegal operators, often called casitas, to thrive. These casitas operate in residential and commercial areas, fueling violent crime, drug activity, and financial fraud. Following a 2022 report by the State Auditor report into the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund, DOJ has no longer been able to investigate unlicensed gambling operations utilizing existing funds.
“Illegal gambling harms the safety of our neighborhoods, and state-level enforcement is critical to stop these operations,” Senator Archuleta said. “SB 451 empowers the DOJ to take action and protect Californians. Since 2022, the number of criminal gambling halls and casitas has skyrocketed in our communities due to DOJ’s inability to pursue investigations against these outfits.”
Unfortunately, local law enforcement lacks the resources and jurisdictional authority to shut these illegal operations down permanently. SB 451 recognizes that state level investigatory authority is needed for California to effectively go after illegal gambling operators and is supported by California’s Police Chiefs, District Attorneys, PORAC, and the Statewide Law Enforcement Association.
The Community for California Cardrooms (CCC), a nonprofit organization that provides a united voice for small businesses and advances and protects local jobs and the economy provided by card rooms, sponsored the bill and thanks Senator Archuleta for authoring this piece of legislation.
“The bill addresses an urgent enforcement gap, as illegal gambling operations have proliferated throughout the state, creating significant public safety concerns,” said CCC President Clarke Rosa. “CCC was honored to work with Senator Archuleta, a champion of the people of the 30th State Senate District and a steadfast leader of California’s public safety mission.”
SB 451 additionally includes a separate provision authorizing a charity 50/50 raffle to be held at the Super Bowl. In 2026, Levi’s Stadium will host Super Bowl LX, and in 2027 Sofi Stadium will host Super Bowl LXI. Allowing a 50/50 raffle at these events will allow team foundations to channel additional dollars to California’s worthy philanthropic organizations.