Texas proposal would put casinos and sports betting to voters in 2027
The proposed constitutional amendment would permit up to 10 casino licenses and a tax of up to 15% on casino and sports betting revenue.
Key points
- Rep. Charlie Geren filed House Joint Resolution 52 on Nov. 9.
- The proposal needs two-thirds support in both chambers to reach the November 2027 ballot.
- Casino licenses would last at least 40 years, with lawmakers deciding where venues could be built.
- Separate measures would expand gaming opportunities for the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.
Texas voters could decide in November 2027 whether to allow casino gaming and sports betting under a proposed constitutional amendment filed by Republican State Rep. Charlie Geren on Nov. 9.
House Joint Resolution 52 would give lawmakers authority to permit and regulate both activities, subject to voter approval. It must first win support from at least two-thirds of members in both the Texas House and Senate, Covers reported.
The proposal would permit up to 10 casino licenses across the state, each lasting at least 40 years. Lawmakers would determine casino locations, where sports wagering could take place and the rules operators would have to follow.
The state could impose a tax of up to 15% on casino gaming and sports betting revenue. Supporters say legalization could provide funds for public education and other expenses, but the proposal does not guarantee an allocation to schools or estimate how much it would raise.
Texas currently prohibits online casinos and sports betting. Existing gambling options are limited to horse and greyhound racing, a state lottery and tribal casinos, according to Covers.
Previous efforts to legalize commercial casinos and sports betting have failed to secure enough support in the Texas Legislature. Opponents have raised concerns about the potential social impact of expanded gambling, particularly on younger people.
Separately, Democratic State Sen. Roland Gutierrez introduced two measures concerning the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas. Senate Joint Resolution 12 would allow gambling through an agreement between the tribe and the state, while Senate Joint Resolution 13 would permit gaming on certain lands under Texas law.
Both measures include provisions limiting certain taxes and fees. They could also give the tribe access to additional gambling options if Texas legalizes them in the future.
Sources
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