The California Department of Justice seized 26 Racing on Demand slot machine-style parimutuel games from Santa Anita racetrack, with plans to destroy them after 30 days unless a court intervenes. These machines, resembling Historic Horse Racing terminals, were confiscated without a court order under the direction of Attorney General Rob Bonta. Santa Anita officials, led by Los Angeles Turf Club senior VP Scott Daruty, argue the machines operate legally under existing pari-mutuel wagering laws and the California Horse Racing Board’s prior approval. They intend to challenge the DOJ’s action in court, asserting their legal position is strong and that the machines are legitimate Tote terminals.

The controversy centers on whether the machines violate tribal gambling compacts, as powerful Tribal entities oppose the terminals, claiming they infringe on exclusive non-pari-mutuel wagering rights. The machines were introduced to boost Santa Anita’s purse funds, which lag behind other states benefiting from supplemental gambling revenues. The DOJ cited California Penal Code 335a related to prohibited gambling in its seizure but has not publicly detailed the specific legal basis for the action. The dispute highlights ongoing political and legal tensions between racetracks and Tribal groups over gambling rights in California.