WatchandWager, a branch of Webis Holdings, has prolonged its internet gambling permit in California for a two-year period. The authorization, endorsed by the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB), will stretch from 2019 to 2021, permitting WatchandWager to keep accepting wagers online from residents of the state.
Webis, which concentrates on mixed betting and operates the WatchandWager Cal Expo harness racing course in California, had previously gained a three-month extension on the permit before obtaining final approval.
“Our authorization to accept online bets in California, alongside our physical track operations, is a valuable asset to the organization,” said WatchandWager President Ed Comins.
The verification of the new permit comes as California contemplates legalizing sports betting on a broader scale within the state. While there are currently no proposals under examination, Assemblyman Adam Gray may reintroduce a proposal he had previously put forward before the Supreme Court’s ruling on PASPA.
In the summer of 2017, Gray suggested altering state regulations to permit sports wagering, contingent upon “federal legislation modifications,” explicitly referencing PASPA. Soon after the Supreme Court overturned PASPA, Gray indicated he would reintroduce the proposal. According to WatchandWager, the legislation is on the verge of entering the committee phase in Sacramento.
Commins stated, “Sports betting is highly probable to be authorized in the state,” implying that WatchandWager, as a licensed racetrack operator and horse racing organization, would be among the select entities permitted to legally accept sports wagers, including online and at the California Exposition racetrack facility.
“This is a period of intense activity for the horse racing and gaming sector in the United States,” he remarked. “We anticipate being prepared to provide sports betting to California inhabitants once the legislature approves it.”
Image: Sarah Sapp
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