AB 779: Gambling establishments.

Existing law, the Gambling Control Act, provides for the licensure and regulation of various legalized gambling activities and establishments by the California Gambling Control Commission and the Department of Justice. The act prohibits the commission from issuing a gambling license unless it is satisfied that the applicant, among other things, is a person of good character, honesty, and integrity. The act establishes criminal penalties for a violation of specific provisions.

This bill would modify definitions establishing certain classifications of employees of gambling establishments and specific requirements for their licenses. The bill would authorize, rather than require, the commission to deny a license to an applicant for specific reasons, including, among others, conviction of a felony or being less than 21 years of age. The bill would prohibit requiring a key employee to be on the premises of a gambling establishment while the establishment is open to the public, if certain conditions are met. The bill would also specify that the commission is prohibited from issuing a gambling license unless it is satisfied that the applicant is a person of good moral character, honesty, and integrity. The bill would state the Legislatures intent to provide comprehensive reforms to the Gambling Control Act by this measure.