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Los Angeles Scoop · Aug 12, 2026

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California Lawmakers Want To Ban Betting On Wildfires California lawmakers are pushing to ban a controversial new form of gambling — betting on wildfires. Online prediction markets have allowed users to wager on how large fires will grow, when they will be contained and even whether flames will reach certain areas. Lawmakers say this crosses a dangerous line, potentially giving someone a financial incentive to interfere with a wildfire or even intentionally start one. With California communities repeatedly devastated by fires, lawmakers say natural disasters should not become something people can bet on.

*California Lawmakers Want To Ban Betting On Wildfires* California lawmakers are pushing to ban a controversial new form of gambling — betting on wildfires. Online prediction markets have allowed users to wager on how large fires will grow, when they will be contained and even whether flames will reach certain areas. Lawmakers say this crosses a dangerous line, potentially giving someone a financial incentive to interfere with a wildfire or even intentionally start one. With California communities repeatedly devastated by fires, lawmakers say natural disasters should not become something people can bet on.

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