Brian Joseph

San Francisco judge rules that the state likely exceeded its authority in crafting controversial regs that limit popular table games.

Cardrooms have long argued that the cities where they're located will suffer if their operations are impacted.

Rule changes laid out by the state’s attorney general, Rob Bonta, would limit popular games, zapping local tax revenue.

The new rules are slated to go into effect next month while gaming tribes also take aim at the cardrooms' operations.

Criticisms of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are now being employed by commercial operators to threaten Indian gaming.

The move represents a win for the state's gaming tribes, who say their Golden State rivals offer table games in violation of the law.

The filings thus far offer no insight into what the tribes will be arguing on appeal. That will be revealed when briefs are filed in 2026.

Gaming tribes saw their suit against the cardrooms dismissed. They will appeal, but the outcome may not matter if proposed regs are enacted.