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Texas lawmakers file casino and sports betting proposals ahead of 2027 session
The resolutions would permit up to 10 casinos and create a state gaming commission. A constitutional amendment would require approval from lawmakers and voters.
Texas lawmakers have filed proposals to allow casinos and sports betting ahead of the 2027 legislative session, setting up a potential debate over a constitutional amendment that would need voter approval.
Rep. Charlie Geren, a Republican, filed House Joint Resolution 52 (HJR52), while Democratic Sen. Carol Alvarado filed Senate Joint Resolution 11 (SJR11), Card Player reported. Both would allow the legislature to authorize and regulate casinos and sports betting.
The proposals would permit up to 10 casinos, with operator licenses lasting 40 years, and cap the state tax on the industry at 15%. They do not specify how the tax revenue would be used.
Both resolutions would create a state gaming commission. They would also allow the Alabama-Coushatta, Kickapoo and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, the state's three federally recognized tribes, to enter compacts with Texas for Class III gaming facilities.
Getting an amendment onto the ballot requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers: 100 votes in the House and 21 in the Senate. Card Player reported that Democrats will control the House and Republicans will control the Senate when the new legislature begins.
Republican Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick has declined to bring previous casino and sports betting efforts to a Senate vote, according to Card Player. Democratic Lieutenant Governor-elect Vikki Goodwin has supported allowing voters to decide gambling issues.
Opponents have raised concerns about gambling's potential harm to young people. Christian Life Commission representative Rob Kohler pointed to studies on the issue, saying, “All these studies are coming out — it preys on the youth of our state.”
Commercial casinos and sports betting are currently illegal in Texas. The state permits horse racing, a lottery and charitable bingo, and has tribal gaming and poker clubs, according to Card Player.