Gambling Expansion in Texas Sparks Strong Opposition and Support

Texas is one of the handful of US states that currently have strict laws when it comes to gambling activities. This is why gambling lobbyists, as well as lawmakers, are pushing for the legalization of sports betting and destination resorts, offering hotel accommodation, entertainment and casino gambling.

While over the last few years, no proposals have made significant traction, it is likely that lawmakers supporting the gambling expansion will make another push during this legislative session.

Gambling Expansion, Possible Through Change in the State’s Constitution

One possible option is a sports betting proposal which gained momentum in 2023 after passing the Texas House. Further efforts are led by Las Vegas Sands, the recognizable gambling and hospitality giant. Their lobbying efforts call for the legalization of destination resorts, bringing such establishments to major cities across the state.

The main difficulty gambling supporters are facing in Texas is its years-long opposition to gambling activities, maintained by Governors, the House and the Senate. Gaining sufficient support is crucial for lawmakers proposing to expand gambling statewide as such a bill would require approval of two-thirds in both the Senate and the House.

In addition, a potential gambling expansion proposal would also need to be approved by state voters. Only in this way the lawmakers would be able to change the state’s constitution and bring casino gambling and sports betting.

Support for Legal Betting and Destination Resorts Grows

The push comes at a time when Gov. Gregg Abbott recently discussed gambling legalization in an interview for the Houston Chronicle. “I don’t have a problem with online betting. The reality is that I’d be shocked if there were not some Texans that do it already,” he explained. This signals the Governor’s likely support for the legalization of sports gambling.

On the other hand, the support for destination resorts is also intensifying with further lobbying efforts. Andy Abboud, Las Vegas Sands’ SVP of government relations, who was quoted by the Texas Tribune, spoke about the statewide support of destination resorts from Texas lawmakers. He added that the effort continues to gain momentum. “Texans want to decide and vote on this issue, and we look forward to working with the legislature to give them that opportunity this session,” Abboud explained.

Earlier this month, a poll pointed out the growing support of legal sports betting among Texans. A majority of 60% of the people interviewed supported online sports betting. Similarly, an overwhelming majority of 73% approve of the development of destination resorts.

Opponents Say Casinos and Betting Are “Economically Regressive”

While supporters of the gambling expansion say the activity will bring fresh tax revenue, create new jobs and protect the consumers from the black market, opponents disagree. Texans Against Gambling, a coalition opposing the legalization of betting and destination resorts, recently voiced its concerns.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the organization wrote: “Sports gambling and casinos are economically regressive, scholarly studies show, because they produce nothing of external value.” Moreover, Texans Against Gambling added: “They do not spur long-term economic growth.  Instead, they hinder it. Keep Texas, Texas.”

While the debate for and against casino gambling and sports betting continues, the lawmakers have one month to introduce a proposal in the House or the Senate. That is the case they want to press forward with efforts during this legislative session.