The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened its latest public meeting to deliberate on a broad range of licensing, regulatory, and suitability matters concerning individuals and entities engaged in California’s gambling and tribal gaming industries. The comprehensive session covered over a dozen agenda items and featured detailed reviews of employee licenses, work permits, third-party proposition services, tribal gaming suitability, and supplier renewals.

Key Highlights from the April 2025 Commission Meeting:

1. Initial and Temporary Key Employee Licenses

The Commission evaluated the initial applications of Louis Garcia and Bounlek Syvilay, with differing staff recommendations. Garcia’s case was recommended for referral to an evidentiary hearing due to concerns related to illegal gambling. Syvilay, on the other hand, received a conditional approval pending regular updates on delinquent tax obligations.

2. Work Permit Renewal Denials

The renewal work permit for Charlene Gonzales was recommended for denial by Commission staff.

3. Third-Party Proposition Player Services Licenses

Applications from entities like KBCH Consultants, Inc. and Players Edge Services were reviewed. Jared Francis (KBCH) received a conditional recommendation, requiring proof of debt resolution, while Jarrel Guieb (Players Edge) was recommended for straightforward approval.

4. Gaming Resource Supplier Suitability Findings

Several major suppliers received approval for either initial or renewal findings of suitability under California’s tribal-state compacts, including:

• Aristocrat Technologies, Inc.

• Giesecke+Devrient Currency Technology America, Inc.

• HCAL, LLC (Caesars Entertainment)

• IGT (International Game Technology)

• Interblock USA, L.C.

• Surveillance Systems Integration, Inc.

These approvals, spanning expiration dates through 2027, reflect ongoing compliance and operational integrity.

5. Key Employee Suitability Findings for Tribal Casinos

Dozens of applicants across tribal gaming properties received either initial or renewal findings of suitability. Highlights include approvals for employees at:

• Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

• Jamul Casino

• Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino

• Agua Caliente Casinos (multiple locations)

• Sycuan Casino and Resort

• Graton Resort & Casino

• Thunder Valley Casino Resort

• Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel

These decisions reflect the Commission’s continued oversight of individuals holding influential roles in tribal casino operations throughout California.

6. Third-Party Employee Licensing – Extensive Review

The Commission reviewed an extensive list of initial and renewal applications for third-party proposition player services employees across several operators including:

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• Blackstone Gaming, LLC

• Knighted Ventures, LLC

• Progressive Gaming, LLC

• F2 TPS, LLC

• L.E. Gaming, Inc.

Hundreds of individual applications were evaluated, with most receiving recommended approvals through 2027.

7. Commission Work Permits and Renewals

Work permit renewals for cardroom employees at venues such as Casino Merced, Empire Sportsmen’s Association, and Napa Valley Casino were also considered and approved.

8. Tribal-State Compact Supplier and Key Employee Hearings

Default decisions were discussed for applicants who did not respond or attend scheduled hearings. These included applicants for tribal-state compact key employee findings and third-party proposition player licenses. No staff recommendations were issued for these hearings.

9. Authorized Table Requests

Stars Casino submitted a request regarding the number of authorized tables. The staff recommended that the Commission take no action at this time.

10. Consent Calendar Approvals

The Commission recommended approval of multiple consent calendar items, with exceptions noted for select applicants.

The California Gambling Control Commission will hold a meeting on June 20, 2024, to consider various applications and renewals related to cardroom owner licenses and other gambling-related licenses. The agenda includes significant items such as:

1. Initial Cardroom Owner License Consideration:
   • Commerce Casino: California Commerce Club, Inc.
     • Recommendation: Approve the initial application through March 31, 2025.
2. Renewal of Cardroom Owner Licenses:
   • Artichoke Joe’s Casino:
     • Recommendation: Approve a 90-day extension through September 30, 2024, with existing conditions.
   • Capitol Casino:
     • Recommendation: Approve the renewal application through March 31, 2026.
   • Casino 99:
     • Options:
       1. Approve renewal through December 31, 2025.
       2. Approve renewal with additional conditions.
       3. Refer to an evidentiary hearing and issue an interim license.
       4. Deny the renewal application.
     • Recommendation: Option Three.
   • Jalisco Pool Room:
     • Recommendation: Approve renewal through June 30, 2026, with existing conditions.
   • Mike’s Card Casino:
     • Recommendation: Approve a 60-day extension through August 31, 2024, with existing conditions.
3. Requests and Other Considerations:
   • Bell Jackpot Casino: Request to withdraw application.
     • Recommendation: Approve the request without prejudice.
   • Empire Sportsmen’s Association: Cancellation of Temporary Work Permit.
     • Recommendation: Cancel the permit.
   • Acme Player Services, LLC: Retraction of hearing referral and renewal application.
     • Recommendation: Retract the referral and abandon the renewal application for specified members.
4. Third-Party Proposition Player Services Employee License Renewals and Approvals:
   • Various applications for initial and renewal licenses were considered with recommendations to approve through specified periods.

The California Gambling Control Commission held a significant meeting on April 18, 2024, to discuss and decide on various licensing and compliance matters crucial for the operation and regulation of the state’s gambling entities. The California Gambling Control Commission’s agenda was packed with key issues ranging from the renewal of cardroom licenses to the approval of tribal gaming key employees.

A notable decision from the meeting was the approval of the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund Final Report, allowing for the distribution of quarterly license revenue to eligible recipient Indian tribes. This move underscores the California Gambling Control Commission’s ongoing commitment to supporting tribal communities through structured revenue sharing, even as some financial shortfalls were acknowledged.

The California Gambling Control Commission also reviewed several renewal applications for cardroom owner licenses. Noteworthy renewals included Bankers Casino under Old Town Investments Incorporated, Blacksheep Casino Company and Bruce’s Bar and Casino, which were approved with specific conditions related to operational compliance and security protocols.

Another critical area of focus was the licensing of key employees at tribal casinos. Several applications for initial and renewal of key employee licenses were approved, reflecting the California Gambling Control Commission’s stringent oversight in ensuring that individuals in significant casino roles meet the regulatory requirements. These decisions are essential for maintaining the integrity and security of gaming operations within the state.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the renewal and approval of third-party proposition player services, which are vital for cardrooms that do not bank their games. The California Gambling Control Commission approved several of these licenses, highlighting its role in facilitating responsible gambling while ensuring compliance with state laws.

The California Gambling Control Commission’s actions during the April meeting highlight the complex regulatory environment governing the state’s gambling industry and its proactive approach in adapting to new challenges and ensuring fair and safe gambling practices.