MTO Lands Victory for California Cardroom Industry in Dispute with Tribes 

Munger, Tolles & Olson secured a significant victory today on behalf of the California cardroom industry in a dispute with California gaming tribes over the ability of tribes to press litigation challenging games offered at cardrooms in communities across the State.  Sacramento State Superior Court Judge Lauri A. Damrell held that SB 549 (2024) – which paved the way for the tribes to bring their lawsuit – was preempted by the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).

“We are gratified by the court’s decision today in support of the cardroom industry’s position and in resolving this highly complex and important dispute,” said Munger, Tolles & Olson Partner John L. Schwab. “Munger, Tolles & Olson is proud to have served as lead counsel for members of this industry, representing dozens of cardrooms from across the state.”

The California Gaming Association—the trade association for California’s cardroom industry—also released this statement: “Cardrooms for many decades have proudly operated lawful games with full transparency and stringent oversight by the office of the Attorney General of the State of California and the California Gambling Control Commission. We are encouraged by today’s decision. Our member cardrooms will continue to support good jobs, vital public services, and local economies across California while upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and compliance.”