On behalf of the California Entertainment Machine Association (CEMA), we conducted a full day of legislative outreach at the California State Capitol to discuss the challenges facing California’s amusement and entertainment machine industry and to advocate for greater regulatory clarity regarding skill games, crane games, redemption devices, and related amusement equipment.
Throughout the day, we met with key legislators and policy staff responsible for gaming, governmental organization, and business-related issues. Discussions focused on the economic contributions of California’s amusement industry, the impact of ongoing regulatory uncertainty, and the importance of distinguishing lawful amusement devices from illegal gambling operations.
Meetings Conducted
Felipe Lopez
Chief Consultant, Senate Governmental Organization Committee
We discussed the need for clear statutory guidance regarding amusement devices and emphasized the importance of including industry stakeholders in future legislative and regulatory discussions. The conversation focused on the uncertainty created by pending legal interpretations and the challenges facing small California operators.
Assemblymember Stan Ellis
We discussed the significant role amusement operators play in supporting small businesses throughout California, including restaurants, bars, family entertainment centers, and hospitality venues. Particular emphasis was placed on the economic pressures facing operators and the importance of regulatory certainty.
Assemblymember Juan Carrillo
The discussion centered on local economic impacts, job creation, and the importance of preserving lawful amusement entertainment opportunities for California businesses and consumers. We highlighted the need for balanced enforcement and clear distinctions between legitimate amusement devices and illegal gambling activities.
Senator Megan Dahle
Senator Dahle was receptive to concerns regarding the impact of regulatory uncertainty on family-owned businesses and local economies. We discussed the importance of clear statewide standards that provide operators, business owners, and enforcement agencies with consistent guidance.
Eric Johnson
Chief Consultant, Assembly Governmental Organization Committee
Our discussion focused on policy and implementation issues affecting the amusement industry. We emphasized the importance of workable statutory language, stakeholder engagement, and avoiding unintended consequences that could negatively impact lawful amusement operators.
Senator Tim Grayson
We discussed the economic contributions of California’s amusement industry and the importance of creating a regulatory environment that supports legitimate businesses while protecting consumers. The conversation focused on practical solutions and balanced regulation.
Senator Tony Strickland
Discussions focused on the challenges facing small businesses due to rising costs and regulatory uncertainty. We emphasized the importance of supporting California-based operators and ensuring that lawful businesses are not adversely affected by overly broad enforcement approaches.
Assemblymember Mike Fong
We highlighted the role amusement operators play in supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to California’s economy. We also discussed the importance of maintaining opportunities for family entertainment venues and hospitality businesses.
Key Themes Presented by CEMA
- Regulatory clarity and consistency
- Protection of legitimate California small businesses
- Distinguishing lawful amusement devices from illegal gambling operations
- Support for California hospitality and entertainment venues
- Encouraging stakeholder engagement in future legislative discussions
- Fair and balanced enforcement policies
Conclusion
The meetings provided an important opportunity to educate policymakers and key legislative staff regarding the challenges facing California’s amusement industry. CEMA remains committed to working collaboratively with legislators, regulators, and stakeholders to develop policies that protect consumers while supporting responsible businesses, preserving jobs, and strengthening local economies throughout California.