Election results: California Propositions 26, 27 on sports betting both failing
Should sports betting be allowed in California, and if so, how and where? That was the sticky question facing Golden State voters in Tuesday's election with Propositions 26 and 27.
Early returns showed voters roundly defeating both measures. With 37% of ballots counted, Proposition 26 was failing 70.5% to 29.5%, and Proposition 27 was losing 84% to 16%.
Proposition 26
Proposition 26 would allow people 21 years and older to place bets on roulette, dice games, and sports at Native American casinos and the four licensed horse tracks in the state. Sports betting is currently illegal in California.
Yes: Proponents of the measure believe the proposition will increase American Indian self-sufficiency and community programs. Legalizing sports betting could also bring more money into the state and provides strong age verification safeguards.
No: Those opposed say that legalizing more ways to gamble is dangerous for the public's health and safety. Gambling also contributes to bankruptcy, unemployment and loss of state tax revenue.
Fiscal impact: After regulatory costs are paid, 70% of the money generated through Prop. 26 would go toward the state's general fund, 15% would go toward gambling enforcement, and 15% would fund mental health research.
Election 2022 FAQ: What Coachella Valley voters need to know about voting
Proposition 27
This proposition is the most expensive campaign for and against a proposition in California. The controversial measure would allow online and mobile sports betting outside of tribal lands and the licensed horse racetracks. The proposition would also create a new unit with the state's Justice Department to regulate online bets.
Yes: Those in favor of Prop. 27 have pointed out that online sports betting is already happening, so it should be made legal. Proponents also say that the proposition would provide for enforcement.
No: Much like Prop. 26, those who oppose this proposition believe gambling is a threat to public health and safety. The proposition is supported by out-of-state gambling companies that will take away money from the state. Tribes and card rooms are also concerned with how this could impact California's gambling industry.
Fiscal impact: Money generated through online sports betting would go to fund gambling addiction programs, homelessness and to tribes not involved in online sports betting. The proposition is exempt from California's education commitment mandate, so no money would go into public schools or community colleges.
It's unlikely Prop. 27 would generate more than $500 million in state revenue annually, according to the Legislative Analyst's Office.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Election results: California Propositions 26, 27 legalize sports betting
