Texas Ex-Gov. Perry Pushes for Legalization of Sports Betting

Texas, the second-biggest US state in terms of population and area, is among several states that currently do not offer legal sports betting. In Oklahoma, one of Texas’ neighboring states, efforts toward legalization continue, while Louisiana, Arkansas and New Mexico, all of which are bordering Texas, currently offer legal betting on sports. But the fight toward legalizing sports betting in Texas continues, with former Gov. Rick Perry confirming his support for the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), a group of US operators that support the safe and legal sports betting sector.

In a video released on X, the Governor revealed that he joins the SBA in support for the legalization of sports betting across Texas. Perry estimated that the size of the illegal sports betting market in the state is in the billions. He said that there is an estimated $8.7 billion in bets placed in Texas via illegal, unlicensed, offshore betting operators.

Gov. Perry warned that the use of illegal betting operators poses a threat to the personal information of the users. Moreover, he said that there is no guarantee that bettors would receive their payouts. According to the former Governor, there are no legal repercussions against the illegal offering, posing another risk for the consumers who use such services.

“I joined the Sports Betting Alliance because it’s time to end the offshore, illicit market for sports betting and create a consumer protected online sports betting market in Texas,“

wrote former Gov. Rick Perry

The Legalization of Wagering on Sports, a Homerun for Everyone

Another important point raised by the former Governor is the support of professional sports franchises in Texas. He explained that the state’s 11 major professional sports franchises support the legalization of sports wagering.

“Given that Texans are already participating in mobile sports betting, legalization would be a homerun for all involved,“

added Perry

Gov. Perry explained that while more than 35 states have already legalized the activity, Texas “continues to fall behind.” Speaking about the state’s neighbors, he added that they are benefitting from money that can otherwise stay in Texas. The former Governor added that the legalization of betting can raise significant proceeds for the state, estimating the activity can generate up to $556 million annually.

Speaking about the integrity of sports, Perry said that a robust set of rules needs to be implemented. Those rules, the Governor said, would help safeguard the integrity of sports competitions while at the same time providing legal options for Texans to wager on.