The Lone Star State of Texas is on the cusp of significant changes in its gambling landscape as House Joint Resolution 102 (HJR 102) and House Bill 1942 (HB 1942), aimed at legalizing sports betting, have successfully passed a crucial hurdle. Following a third reading in the Texas House of Representatives, both measures have advanced to the Senate, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s quest for expanded gambling options.
House Joint Resolution 102 (HJR 102):
HJR 102 secured an impressive 101 votes in favor out of a possible 143 during the recent House of Representatives vote.
This resolution, if ultimately passed by a two-thirds Senate vote, will pave the way for a statewide public vote on November 7. The aim is to amend the Texas Constitution, which currently restricts most forms of gambling in the state.
The proposed legislation enables online sports betting through Texas professional sports teams. If enacted, franchises in the WNBA, MLS, MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL within Texas will become eligible for online sports betting licenses.
House Bill 1942 (HB 1942):
Representative Jeff Leach introduced HB 1942, the enabling legislation for HJR 102. It received a vote of 82-51 in favor during the same session.
This bill outlines key provisions, including a 10% tax rate on adjusted gross sports betting revenue, and a license fee of $500,000.
HB 1942 has garnered support from the Texas Sports Betting Alliance, a coalition of professional sports franchises, sports leagues, race tracks, and sports betting platforms.
The Path Forward for Casino Gambling:
In addition to sports betting, Texas is exploring the possibility of casino gambling through HJR 155, introduced by Representative Charlie Geren, and its accompanying legislation, HB 2843, sponsored by Representative John Kuempel.
HJR 155 and HB 2843 are currently in their early stages, with the former receiving 92 votes in favor and 55 against during its second reading in the House.
The proposed legislation aims to allow gaming companies to apply for licenses to establish seven high-end “destination resorts” across Texas, including two in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, two in Houston, and one each in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and McAllen. These resorts would house both casino gaming and sports wagering, with a Texas Gaming Commission established to regulate these activities.
The proposed tax on gross casino gaming revenue from each license holder is set at 15%.
Texas is in the midst of a significant legislative shift, with potential sports betting and casino gambling on the horizon. The successful advancement of HJR 102 and HB 1942 in the House of Representatives signifies a promising start for these initiatives. If these bills continue to progress through the Senate and beyond, Texas residents could find themselves with expanded gambling options and a chance to influence the state’s gambling landscape in the coming months.