Out-of-state online gambling corporations are promoting a deceptive November 2022 ballot measure that would legalize online sports gambling while falsely masquerading as a “solution” for homelessness—hurting tribes, exposing kids to the perils of online gambling, and driving jobs and business out of California. Our coalition has formed to urge a NO vote on Prop 27, the Corporate Online Gambling Proposition.
Prop 27 Exposes Kids to Online and Problem Gambling
- Prop 27 would legalize the largest expansion of gambling in state history—turning virtually every cellphone, tablet, laptop and video game console in California into a gambling device.
- The National Council on Problem Gambling found that online gambling is far more addictive than in-person gambling. In fact, online sports gamblers are 5X more likely to develop problem gambling than other types of gamblers.
- The accelerated speed of play, easy access and instantaneous nature of online and mobile gambling are especially attractive to youth and those prone to compulsive gambling.
- Prop 27 lacks critical safeguards to prevent underage gambling—there is no sure-proof way to prevent kids from placing online bets using false information or an adult’s account.
- Prop 27 would also allow online bets to be placed with a credit card, putting those who struggle with addiction and problem gambling at risk of easily incurring large amounts of debt.
Prop 27 is NOT a “Solution” to Homelessness
- Proponents are deceptively marketing Prop 27 as a “solution” to homelessness, but don’t be fooled. This measure was written for the sole benefit of out-of-state gambling corporations.
- It’s simply bad public policy to fund homelessness and mental health programs by legalizing online gambling.
- Experts cite “gambling addiction” as a significant factor that contributes to folks becoming homeless and maintaining the cycle of homelessness.
- California has spent more than $30 billion to address homelessness in the last five years, but things have only gotten worse. A recent report by the independent State Auditor said the state’s homelessness efforts are “disjointed,” “fragmented” and have “not fulfilled its most critical responsibilities.”
- Look no further than the State Lottery—California voters were promised a solution to the education funding gap, but decades later, it has failed to live up to the promise.
Prop 27 Hurts California Indian Tribes
- Over 50 Indian tribes from across California strongly oppose Prop 27 because it would disrupt safe, responsible gaming that has been operating on tribal lands for over 20 years.
- Under Prop 27, online gambling corporations would take near total control of the sports wagering market in California—while excluding the vast majority of Indian tribes.
- Prop 27 would drive business away from Indian casinos—posing a direct threat to Indian self-reliance. It would reduce funds for healthcare, education and housing in tribal communities that endure poverty at twice the rate of California’s broader population.
Prop 27 Shortchanges Schools and Critical State Priorities
- Prop 27 would send 90% of profits into the pockets of out-of-state gambling corporations, without creating new jobs or making any real investments in California.
- Moreover, Prop 27 explicitly sidesteps the General Fund—not a single penny of tax revenues would go to state priorities like public schools, wildfire prevention, or emergency response.
