FRESNO, Calif. — Months after hundreds of cardroom workers rallied in downtown Fresno against a proposed statewide blackjack ban, the debate has intensified. The October 23 protest outside Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Fresno office brought together employees, union leaders, and business owners who warned the rule change would devastate the local cardroom economy.
The California Department of Justice proposal would prohibit cardrooms from offering blackjack and similar “banked” table games, where players compete against the house. The rule seeks to address what officials describe as a loophole allowing cardrooms to offer games intended for tribal casinos.
Cardroom operators warn the impact would be significant. Blackjack-style games generate about half the revenue at many venues, and industry groups estimate over 18,000 jobs in California could be affected. Fresno’s Club One Casino and The 500 Club Casino would lose their most popular tables.
Since the rally, cardroom advocates have continued to lobby lawmakers and regulators. They argue the ban would shift economic activity to tribal casinos and create budget shortfalls for cities like Fresno that depend on cardroom tax revenue. Industry representatives also contend the proposal advanced without adequate economic review, as noted in public comments.
State officials have not set a final implementation date. The initial proposal targeted mid-2026. Recently, the Department of Justice stated it is still reviewing feedback and has not indicated major changes. Tribal gaming groups continue to support the ban, stating it upholds the original intent of California’s gaming compacts and prevents cardrooms from operating as casinos.
Offshore Online Blackjack Remains a Legal Option for Californians
While California cardrooms face increased restrictions, legal online blackjack sites continue to accept California players. These sites operate outside U.S. jurisdiction but permit Americans, including Californians, as state law does not prohibit play at licensed offshore sites.
Several major offshore operators report increased traffic from California, partly due to uncertainty surrounding the ban. These sites offer classic blackjack, multi-hand games, and live-dealer tables streamed from international studios, often matching or exceeding the offerings of local cardrooms.
Analysts note that if the ban passes, online platforms may expand further as displaced players seek alternatives. Regulators acknowledge the offshore market but state their authority does not extend to internationally licensed operators.
Economic Stakes Rise as Cardrooms Brace for Potential Shutdowns
Local Fresno leaders have become more vocal as the rules progress. Cardrooms contribute millions in local tax revenue, and several cities have urged the state to reconsider the ban.
Operators warn that without blackjack-style games, many cardrooms will cut staff or close. Some are shifting marketing toward poker and non-banked games, but employees say these options do not replace the demand for blackjack.
Despite pressure, state officials maintain the rule is necessary to ensure compliance with California gaming laws and to resolve disputes between cardrooms and tribal casinos. Additional regulatory updates are expected this year, leaving workers and operators uncertain.