Judge’s decision is major step towards preventing cardroom regulations

For months, small cities, such as Hawaiian Gardens, Compton, Bell Gardens, and Commerce have been anticipating massive budget deficits due to cardroom regulations passed by the California Department of Justice in February.

However, on Thursday, a San Francisco Superior Court judge granted a preliminary injunction against the regulations, which would have restricted Blackjack-style games and third-party dealer roles.

“Today, the courts got it right,” said Matthew Maldonado, executive director of AFSCME District Council 36. “Judge Darwin recognized that these regulations would decimate small communities. Today’s ruling is a step towards preventing unnecessary harm to our communities, working families, and vital public services.” 

The California Gaming Association (CGA) has spearheaded the legal challenge against the cardroom regulations and AFSCME District Council 36 has ensured that the concerns of AFSCME members living and working in these cities were heard throughout this process. 

This preliminary injunction is a victory for small cities that rely on revenue from cardrooms. Now, the case will move forward through the courts, and we anticipate a ruling will be made within the next few months. Hopefully, the judge will make a final ruling declaring that the proposed regulations are not allowed.