Rob Bonta

Rob Bonta is the 34th Attorney General of the State of California, assuming office on April 23, 2021. He is the first person of Filipino descent and the second Asian American to hold this position. His role as Attorney General involves significant engagement with the iGaming and gambling industry through regulation and legal opinions within California.

Born Robert Andres Bonta in Quezon City, Philippines, he immigrated to California with his family as an infant. His passion for justice was shaped by his parents, who were active in social justice movements like the United Farm Workers and the civil rights movement. Bonta pursued a career in law, graduating from Yale University and earning his Juris Doctor from Yale Law School.

Before becoming Attorney General, Bonta served as a Deputy City Attorney for the City and County of San Francisco, representing the city and its workers, and advocating against exploitation and racial profiling. He then spent over eight years in the California State Assembly, where he authored notable legislation concerning tenant protections, healthcare, voting rights, and the banning of private prisons. He also served on the Alameda City Council from 2010 to 2012.

As Attorney General, Bonta has been actively involved in California's gambling landscape. He issued a legal opinion declaring daily fantasy sports platforms illegal in California, citing violations of state gambling laws. He has also pursued regulations impacting card rooms, including restrictions on blackjack-style games and the operations of third-party proposition players, though some of these regulations have faced legal challenges and been temporarily halted by court rulings. His office is committed to safeguarding the public and ensuring a fair and transparent marketplace, which includes addressing illegal gambling activities and fraud schemes.