Gambling Control Act: persons under 21 years of age.
Impact
If passed, AB 1924 would significantly alter the landscape of employment within gambling establishments by permitting younger individuals to take on non-gaming roles. The bill stipulates that these individuals cannot work as dealers or in jobs that solely require them to be on the gaming floor. Instead, they can serve in positions that provide auxiliary services, thus enhancing job availability for younger residents and possibly addressing labor shortages in specific sectors of the gambling industry.
Summary
Assembly Bill 1924, introduced by Assembly Member Cristina Garcia, aims to amend the existing California Gambling Control Act to allow individuals aged between 18 and 20 to work in certain capacities within gambling establishments. Previously, the law prohibited anyone under 21 from obtaining a work permit or entering these premises, with exceptions only for certain conditions. The proposed amendment is designed to expand employment opportunities for younger individuals in roles that do not involve directly engaging in gambling activities.
Contention
The bill has raised various concerns amongst stakeholders regarding gambling regulation and the potential implications of allowing younger workers in the gambling environment. Critics argue that introducing under-21 individuals into gambling establishments might pose risks associated with the broader cause of gambling addiction and youth exposure to gambling-related activities. Proponents of the bill suggest that such employment must be carefully structured and monitored to mitigate these risks while recognizing the economic benefits that can accrue from a more inclusive workforce.