In January 2018, the California State Assembly passed AB 2392, which makes it unlawful to offer or provide any form of online bingo, including traditional bingo games organized by websites and mobile apps. The law takes effect on January 1, 2020.
While the new law is pending in the California State Senate, operators of online bingo sites in the state are reportedly taking steps to comply. In a statement released following the Assembly vote, the American Gaming Association (AGA) urged lawmakers to rethink the bill, arguing that it will hurt businesses and consumers.
According to a study commissioned by AGA and conducted by market research firm Harris Interactive, nearly two-thirds (64%) of U.S.
adults who play online bingo say they have won money playing bingo online at least once in their lives. Among adults who have played online bingo at least once in their lives, 59% say they have won money playing bingo online within the past year.
While it is still too early to tell what impact AB 2392 will have on online bingo in California, it is clear that there is significant opposition to the bill from industry groUPS and players alike. If passed into law, AB 2392 could put many small businesses out of business and deprive consumers of an inexpensive and fun way to spend their leisure time.
