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A San Francisco judge has temporarily blocked California’s new regulations from restricting blackjack-style games and player-dealers. This means CA cardrooms can keep offering those games. Litigation will continue in the background.
The preliminary injunction, issued May 21, 2026, halts rules scheduled for June 1. This preserves the status quo for players across the state for now.
Judge Finds Bureau Overstepped Authority
Judge Richard Darwin ruled the Bureau of Gambling Control exceeded its authority. He found
“Petitioners are very likely to prevail on their argument that in issuing the new regulations, the Bureau of Gambling Control acted in excess of its jurisdiction.”
The decision stops Attorney General Rob Bonta’s rules from taking effect and lets cardrooms continue offering player-dealt blackjack during the legal fight.
The California Gaming Association opposed the regulations harming cardrooms and local communities. The court reached a conclusion. Immediate enforcement would cause those harms. The injunction is limited to 45 days, with the next hearing set for June 30, 2026.
What You Need to Know Right Now
- You can keep playing blackjack and player-dealer variants at California cardrooms for the moment. No immediate changes are being enforced.
- The injunction remains in effect. No sudden rule or payout changes will affect current sessions.
- Promotions and operations are likely to remain unchanged in the short term. However, final outcomes could alter cardroom offerings down the road. What games or formats will be available may change.
- Contact the cardroom directly for any pending disputes or questions about specific games. This ruling does not change individual disputes or house policies.
Watch for the California Court Timetable
The next hearing is in the coming month, so the injunction lasts 45 days. The court may lift the injunction or issue a final ruling. Should this happen, regulators could attempt revised rules or other enforcement steps.
Californians should follow local cardroom notices for any operational changes to play responsibly during the legal process.
