A group of Texas House Republicans, consisting of both newcomers and some veteran lawmakers, recently declared their opposition to any attempts to expand gambling in the state. This announcement complicates ongoing efforts to legalize casinos and online sports betting during the current legislative session.

Change in Legislative Support

The twelve GOP freshmen joined forces with three returning representatives who had previously supported online sports betting legislation in 2023 but have now reversed their stance. In that session, a measure to allow online sports betting received 101 votes in the 150-member House, narrowly achieving the two-thirds majority required to initiate constitutional amendments.

The shift in support represents a significant setback for proponents of gambling legalization, reducing their chances of forming a viable coalition to advance their cause.

Letter to House Committee Chair

In a letter addressed to Rep. Ken King, the chair of the House State Affairs Committee, the lawmakers expressed confidence that current gambling proposals, including bills for casinos and sports betting, lack the necessary support to pass. They urged him not to allocate committee time to what they described as a “dead on arrival” issue.

Challenges for Casino Legalization

The road to casino legalization appears even more challenging. In 2023, an amendment proposing “destination resort” casinos garnered 92 votes, falling short of the two-thirds majority needed by eight votes. Out of the fifteen lawmakers who signed the anti-gambling letter, nine are new members whose predecessors had voted for the casino proposal.

This shift in allegiance indicates a net loss of ten votes, significantly affecting the viability of future casino legislation.

The Appeal of Voter Decision

Supporters of gambling argue that allowing a constitutional amendment on the ballot would empower Texas voters to decide the issue, thereby removing the decision from lawmakers. This contrasts with typical legislation that can become law without such a referendum if it passes through the legislative process without a gubernatorial veto.

A poll conducted in January by the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs revealed substantial public support: 60% of Texans favor legalized sports betting, and 73% back the establishment of destination resort casinos.

Industry Backing and Lobby Efforts

Organizations advocating for casino legalization, such as the Texas Destination Resort Alliance affiliated with the Las Vegas Sands, emphasize the economic benefits of legal gambling. They argue that denying the opportunity for a voter referendum undermines democratic values and the voices of constituents.

Matt Hirsch, a spokesperson for the Texas Destination Resort Alliance, stated, “Denying Texans the chance to vote on this matter not only undermines the democratic process, but also disregards the voices of the very people they represent.”

Historical Context and Future Considerations

Texas has historically maintained strict gambling regulations since laws were first enacted in 1856 and further tightened in 1973. Although the 2023 House approval was a notable step forward for sports betting, it was largely symbolic, as the proposal faced immediate resistance in the Senate, where Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick indicated a lack of support among Republican senators for expanding gambling.

As the legislative session continues, supporters of gambling are looking to establish stronger bases in the House to prepare for potential changes in Senate leadership in future elections.