Gambling Expansion in Texas: A Hot Topic
Gambling expansion in Texas has been a hotly debated topic for years. With neighboring states like Oklahoma and Louisiana raking in billions of dollars in revenue from casinos and sports betting, many Texans are questioning why their state has not followed suit.
Legalizing casinos, sports betting, and online gambling has sparked both excitement and controversy among residents, with supporters arguing that it could generate much-needed revenue for the state while opponents warn of potential negative consequences such as increased problem gambling and crime.
As the debate heats up, the question remains: will gambling expansion be approved in Texas in 2023?
Will Gambling Expansion in Texas be approved in 2023?
The state is looking at the gambling expansion in Texas. They are planning to legalize casino gambling and sports betting, with Governor Greg Abbott and House Speaker Dade Phelan both signaling their support, Dallas Morning News reported. Sen. Carol Alvarado has already written a bill that would allow a constitutional amendment on casino gambling and sports betting. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Sands Corp. and the Sports Betting Alliance are pushing hard for the expansion.
READ ALSO: Texas Republicans to Revive Corporate Tax Break: Can Exclude Renewables?
Alvarado’s proposal would give the Legislature the power to determine whether to legalize sports betting and whether to issue casino licenses. The newly formed Texas Gaming Commission could issue licenses for up to four luxurious “destination resorts,” with a minimum investment of $2 billion in the Dallas and Houston regions if the gambling expansion in Texas is approved. As gamblers know, upsets are possible, and with momentum building behind the expansion, Texans will be watching closely to see if it goes ahead.
However, there are three significant obstacles in gambling expansion in Texas that need to be overcome to hit the jackpot.
Firstly, Texas is flush with cash and doesn’t need the tax revenue that gambling would generate. Secondly, stakeholders may act like crabs in a barrel, threatening the harmony around any legislative proposal. Finally, there is the question of the existing gaming operations run by Native American tribes.
Despite the challenges, gambling expansion in Texas remains a popular idea with Texans. A poll released last week by the University of Houston found that 75% of adult Texans support legislation to let voters decide on legalizing casinos. The survey also identified 72% support among Republicans and 69% support among “born-again Christians.” The sports betting lobby is also significant, with former Republican Gov. Rick Perry a spokesman for the Sports Betting Alliance, a collective that includes prominent sportsbook operators and all of Texas’ major professional teams.
READ ALSO: Reduction of State’s Sales Tax, Two North Texas Senators’ Bipartisan Proposal!
