Texas's New Democrat Leadership Could Legalize Gambling

The blue wave that swept a new Democrat governor and lieutenant governor as well as of other state representatives into office in Texas could bring new support for casino and gambling legislation in the Lone Star State. Bipartisan efforts to legalize casinos and sports betting have been blocked in the state senate as Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick (R) has declined to bring the issue to a vote.

With the 2027 legislative session looming, legislators are already filing gambling-related bills to help fund public education and other aspects of the state budget. Rep. Charlie Geren (R) has filed House Joint Resolution 52 (HJR52) and Sen. Carol Alvarado (D) filed Senate Joint Resolution 11 (SJR11). Both would allow the legislature to authorize and regulate casinos as well as sports betting, but would require a statewide election. In Texas, any additional legal gaming would require a constitutional amendment.

Both proposals would allow up to 10 casinos with an operator license running 40 years. The state would tax the industry at no more than 15%, but the resolutions don’t spell out where those funds would be used. Additionally, the state’s three federally-recognized tribes – the Alabama-Coushatta, Kickapoo, and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo – will be allowed to enter into compacts with the state for Class III gaming facilities. The legislation would create a state gaming commission to oversee the industry.