Gambling Control Act: investigations.

Senator Archuleta's gambling enforcement legislation expands the Department of Justice's authority to investigate illegal gambling activities beyond licensed establishments in California. The measure amends the Gambling Control Act to explicitly authorize DOJ investigations of suspected criminal violations occurring outside regulated venues, regardless of whether licensed operators are involved.

The bill details specific circumstances under which the DOJ may conduct warrantless inspections and seizures, including situations involving imminent public safety risks or when obtaining a warrant would be impractical. These provisions maintain existing constitutional protections while clarifying the department's ability to respond to urgent enforcement scenarios. The legislation also preserves the DOJ's authority to issue subpoenas, take depositions, and examine witnesses under oath during investigations.

Under the amended code, the DOJ retains its current responsibilities for licensing, monitoring, and investigating licensed gambling establishments while gaining clear statutory authority to pursue illegal operations in other settings. The department must continue publishing approved game rules and collection rates for each gambling establishment on the Attorney General's website, with licensees required to reimburse review and approval costs.