California
California Gambling Control Commission Reviews Licensing and Suitability Applications in April 2025 Meeting

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:
-
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.
California
Notice and Agenda for California Gambling Control Commission Meeting

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:
- Initial Cardroom Owner License Consideration:
- Commerce Casino: California Commerce Club, Inc.
- Recommendation: Approve the initial application through March 31, 2025.
- Commerce Casino: California Commerce Club, Inc.
- 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:
- Approve renewal through December 31, 2025.
- Approve renewal with additional conditions.
- Refer to an evidentiary hearing and issue an interim license.
- Deny the renewal application.
- Recommendation: Option Three.
- Options:
- 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.
- Artichoke Joe’s Casino:
- 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.
- Bell Jackpot Casino: Request to withdraw application.
- 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.
California
California Gambling Control Commission Approves Key Licensing Decisions Amid Regulatory Updates

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.
California
California Gambling Control Commission: A Glimpse into the Upcoming Decisions on Cardroom Licensing

The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) is set to hold a pivotal meeting on March 21, 2024, where key decisions regarding the future of several cardrooms within the state are on the agenda. This meeting underscores the Commission’s role in overseeing the state’s gambling establishments, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a fair and transparent gaming environment. Here’s what stakeholders can expect:
Capitol Casino’s Licensing Future
Capitol Casino, a renowned name in the gambling sector, is up for the renewal of its cardroom owner type license. The Commission is presented with two options: to approve the renewal applications through March 31, 2026, or grant a 90-day extension through June 30, 2024. Commission staff recommend the latter, suggesting a cautious approach towards the renewal process.
Spotlight on Lucky Chances Casino
Lucky Chances Casino faces a critical juncture with its license renewal application. The Commission contemplates referring the applications to an evidentiary hearing, proposing an interim renewal license through September 30, 2025. This decision comes with stringent conditions aimed at preventing Rene Medina, a figure associated with the casino, from patronizing certain areas of the property, among other regulatory stipulations.
Oceana Cardroom’s Path Forward
LEB Holdings’ Oceana Cardroom is recommended for license renewal through March 31, 2026, with specific conditions regarding operational compliance. Before opening for business, the cardroom is required to undergo an inspection by the Bureau of Gambling Control and fulfill various regulatory requirements, ensuring a safe and compliant gaming environment.
Decisions on Parkwest Bicycle Casino
Parkwest Bicycle Casino’s licensing outcome hangs in balance, with two options under consideration. The crux of the decision revolves around the permissibility of contractual relationships with Fortiss, LLC, and TPPPS providers. The staff recommendation leans towards option two, which includes applying for and maintaining a cardroom business license for Fortiss, LLC, should the administrative hearing find the current arrangements non-compliant.
Renewal Application for Rogelio’s
Rogelio’s Inc. seeks renewal through March 31, 2026, with conditions focusing on regulatory compliance before operations commence. This includes submitting a fully completed business entity supplemental information form and adhering to relocation, safety, security, and emergency plan requirements.
Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room
Seven Mile Casino and Westlane Card Room face critical evaluations with recommended options leading towards evidentiary hearings or temporary licensing extensions. These decisions reflect the Commission’s commitment to upholding regulatory standards while ensuring fair consideration of each establishment’s circumstances.
This meeting is a testament to the dynamic nature of California’s gambling landscape, highlighting the Commission’s dedication to transparency, regulatory compliance, and the well-being of the gambling community. Stakeholders and the public await the outcomes, anticipating the impacts on the state’s gambling establishments and the broader gaming environment.
-
Latest News4 days ago
A247 Launch in Brazil Powered by Delasport’s Turnkey Solution
-
Canada6 days ago
Playnetic granted Ontario supplier license
-
Latest News6 days ago
AC Milan Announces New Partnership with Reals
-
Latest News5 days ago
All set for the start of the 2025 edition of BiS SiGMA Americas
-
Latest News5 days ago
BMM TESTLABS PROMOTES DANIEL MAGARINOS TO SENIOR DIRECTOR, GAMING – LATAM
-
Gambling in the USA5 days ago
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack
-
Canada5 days ago
ELK Studios Expands Partnership with SkillOnNet to Ontario Market
-
Latest News5 days ago
OKTO Sets New Standards in Digital Payments at BIS SIGMA Americas