California's Tulare County to Allow Casino Expansion
Tulare County, California's Board of Supervisors has unanimously voted to update the county's gambling ordinance, paving the way for significant expansion in the region's casino operations.
Gambling cards and chips on a gaming table. (Source: Shutterstock)
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:This move is set to reshape the local economy and entertainment landscape, as it allows for a broader scope of gaming activities within unincorporated areas of the state. The Deuce Lounge and Casino's proposal for a new establishment in Goshen in Tulare County acted as a catalyst for this regulatory transformation, highlighting the growing demand for more extensive gaming facilities. Effective from August 27, the revised ordinance introduces several key changes. Notably, the number of gaming tables permitted per casino has more than doubled, increasing from five to 12.
Related: California Considers Potential Blackjack Ban from CardroomsThis expansion is complemented by an increase in the countywide cap on gaming tables, which has risen from twelve to sixteen. Such adjustments are anticipated to attract a larger clientele and stimulate economic growth through increased gaming opportunities and related businesses.
Furthermore, the updated ordinance eliminates the previous betting limits that restricted single bets and the total daily ante to $200. By removing these constraints, casinos can now offer higher-stakes games, potentially drawing in a high-roller demographic and increasing the overall betting volume.
The ordinance also extends the operational hours of casinos, allowing them to function round-the-clock. This change is expected to enhance customer convenience and align Tulare County's gaming industry with the non-stop nature of global casino hubs.
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Creating More Employment
Another progressive aspect of the new regulations is the employment opportunities it creates for younger individuals. Casinos in the county can now employ people aged 18-21 in non-gambling roles, such as in restaurants and other service areas. This provision not only broadens job prospects for the youth but also supports the casinos in building a more robust workforce to cater to their expanded operations.
The timing of these changes coincides with the state's tribal communities nearing legislative approval to pursue legal action against cardrooms and casinos they believe are infringing upon their exclusive gaming rights. A bill currently in the works would give the tribes legal and untethered grounds to sue private cardrooms and casinos offering Las Vegas-style gambling.
The Assembly Appropriations Committee unanimously passed the Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act with a 14-0 vote two weeks ago. It had already been approved by the Governmental Organization (GO) Committee last month with a 14-1 vote.
For the bill to become law, it must pass in the Assembly, receive Senate concurrence, and be signed by the governor before the legislative session ends on August 31.
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