State lawmakers are once again proposing to legalize gambling in Texas.
Although the legalization of gambling in Texas has always been a contentious issue, it has received a renewed push by lawmakers in recent years.
State Rep. Charlie Geren (R–Fort Worth) has filed House Joint Resolution 52, which proposes a state constitutional amendment that would authorize the legislature to legalize and regulate casino and sports gambling.
The proposal would need approval from voters, and the gaming enterprises would be strictly regulated and authorized by the state legislature. Some of the requirements would include taxes on casino revenue, licenses for gambling operators, and application fees.
If passed, the measure would require approval from voters to take effect.
The companion measure, Senate Joint Resolution 11, was filed by State Sen. Carol Alvarado (D–Houston).
Although mostly identical to HJR 52, Alvarado’s legislation additionally proposes the creation of a state agency “with powers to regulate all lotteries and gift enterprises.”
Both pieces of legislation also include sections to “establish a process” to create “a Tribal-State gaming compact with any of the three existing federally recognized Indian tribes with Indian lands” in Texas.
Additional legislation filed surrounding gambling includes the creation of a lottery game to benefit animal welfare. Another adds the offer of a compensation, award, or a prize in a “paid fantasy sports league” to the legal definition of “bet;” while another amends the definition of “private place” to exclude commercial gaming enterprises such as for-profit poker clubs, card clubs, or game rooms.
The 90th Legislative Session begins on January 12.
