Sports Betting Platforms & Casino Operators Lobby Texas to Legalize Gambling
Texas is at a tipping point when it comes to gambling. Right now, billions of dollars are leaving the state as Texans head to casinos in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Supporters of legalized gambling say it’s time to keep that cash in Texas. Prominent names in the sportsbook arena are backing the effort, but there are still some hurdles.
The Growing Push to Legalize Gambling in Texas
For decades, Texas has maintained some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. Aside from the state lottery, charitable bingo, and limited pari-mutuel betting at racetracks, legal gambling options have remained scarce.
Yet, Texans' appetite for gambling has been evident, with many residents regularly crossing state lines to visit casinos in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Many Texans also access online casinos through offshore sites. These sites are often licensed and regulated in jurisdictions like Curaçao, Malta, or Gibraltar, meaning they aren't subject to US state or federal law and regulations.
Despite having no local iGaming options, Texan players can still use their smartphones to access modern platforms like the fastest payout online casino. These kinds of sites allow users to play casino games online while providing the added convenience of instant payouts, wide-ranging payment options, and generous welcome bonuses to get them started. Supporters of legal reform point out that Texas is losing billions in tax revenues to other states and territories.
Public sentiment toward gambling has also shifted significantly in recent years. Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that allowed states to legalize sports betting, more than 35 states have embraced the practice. This has resulted in billions of extra tax dollars raised for those states.
Governor Greg Abbott, who previously opposed expanding gambling, recently expressed openness to the idea of legalizing online sports betting. State Representative Sam Harless has also introduced House Joint Resolution 134, a measure that could bring the issue to voters as soon as November 2025.
Political Support and Key Endorsements
Support for legalizing casinos and sports betting in Texas has grown significantly in recent years. One notable shift came when Governor Greg Abbott, who was once against gambling, said he was open to allowing online sports betting.
Abbott explained that a well-regulated system could protect people who bet while also bringing in money that Texans currently spend in other states. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who has usually been against gambling, also recognized that more Texans are interested in the idea.
Representative Sam Harless recently introduced House Joint Resolution 134, which would change the Texas Constitution to allow sports betting. If the legislature passes this resolution, voters will get to decide whether to approve sports betting in the 2025 election.
Major Texas teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, and San Antonio Spurs are working together with the Texas Sports Betting Alliance to advocate for the change. However, some groups still strongly oppose the idea.
Texas Sports Betting Alliance
The Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA) has become a key player in the push to legalize sports betting in Texas. A big part of what the TSBA does is work with lawmakers to pass new gambling laws. The TSBA's primary activity is advocating for legislation to legalize sports betting.
Big gambling companies are part of the group because they see Texas as a large, promising market. Despite the legislative obstacles, the Texas Sports Betting Alliance is hopeful of progress in the near future.
Public Opinion Favors Expanded Gambling Options
Public support for expanding gambling options in Texas has grown significantly in recent years. Polls show that a majority of Texans are now in favor of legalizing sports betting and opening resort-style casinos.
A recent survey from the University of Houston found that about 60% of Texans support online sports betting, and around 73% want casinos to be legal in the state. Younger adults are especially supportive since many of them already use sports betting apps and are familiar with digital gambling platforms.
With more sports betting apps becoming popular, many fans want the option to bet legally on their favorite teams without leaving Texas. Right now, a lot of money is going to casinos in nearby states or offshore online gambling sites.
Legislative Hurdles and Opposition
Despite growing public support for legalizing casinos and sports betting in Texas, the movement still faces significant challenges. Lawmakers must first change the state constitution, and only then can the issue be put to a public vote.
Opposition from conservative lawmakers is another major hurdle. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, has in the past voiced skepticism about the benefits of expanded gambling.
Anti-gambling organizations in Texas, like the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission, actively fight against gambling. Politicians have to decide if the possible tax revenue and job creation are worth the risk to their careers.
Potential Economic Impact of Legalized Gambling
Legalizing casinos and sports betting in Texas could bring big economic benefits to the state. With its large population and popular tourist destinations, Texas could become one of the top gambling markets in the country if the laws change.
One of the most immediate benefits would be the increase in tax revenue. Neighboring states like Louisiana and Oklahoma already benefit from Texans crossing the border to gamble, and proponents believe Texas should keep that money within its borders.
Tourism would also likely grow. Big casinos don't just offer gambling—they often have hotels, restaurants, concert halls, and convention centers that attract visitors from other states. Meanwhile, modern online casinos now provide for crypto betting and with President Trump calling for a national Bitcoin reserve, there’s never been a better time to get into digital currencies.
Responsible Gambling Measures and Social Concerns
As Texas considers legalizing casinos and sports betting, the issue of responsible gambling has become a key point of discussion. Religious and community groups are especially concerned about how it could hurt vulnerable people.
One key rule would be age restrictions. Gambling companies would have to make sure everyone who bets, either online or live, is old enough. This would include checking IDs online to stop underage gambling and protect younger people.
Self-exclusion programs and betting limits are being considered, too. Gambling companies might also offer tools that let players set limits on how much money or time they spend gambling. They would also need to make sure support was available if needed.
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