Representative Charlie Geren of Texas has introduced House Joint Resolution 97, a legislative proposal aimed at giving voters the opportunity to decide on legalizing casino gaming in the state. The resolution, if approved, would allow gaming companies to seek licenses for the establishment of seven high-end “destination resorts” across Texas. This initiative marks a significant step toward potential casino legalization and comes after previous attempts to expand gambling in the state.
Resort Locations and Scope:
House Joint Resolution 97 outlines plans for the creation of seven destination resorts strategically distributed across Texas. The proposed locations include two in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, two in Houston, and one each in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and McAllen. The resorts would offer both casino gaming and sports wagering options. To oversee and regulate these activities, the legislation proposes the establishment of a Texas Gaming Commission.
Taxation and Financial Impact:
Under the terms of the resolution, casino license holders would be subject to a 15% tax on their gross casino gaming revenue. This tax revenue would contribute to the state’s finances and could potentially provide substantial economic benefits to the areas hosting the destination resorts.
Legislative Process and Public Vote:
For the resolution to become a reality, it must go through a series of steps in the Texas legislative process. It requires approval from both the House and the Senate, followed by the endorsement of Governor Greg Abbott. Ultimately, if all necessary approvals are secured, the proposal will be included in the November ballot for a public vote. Such a vote would require amending the Texas Constitution, which currently restricts most forms of gambling.
Past Attempts and Similar Initiatives:
This is not the first attempt to expand gambling in Texas. Senator Carol Alvarado had previously introduced Senate Joint Resolution 17, a similar piece of legislation, last November. In 2021, Representative Dan Huberty sponsored bills HB2070 and HJR97, both aimed at legalizing sports betting through constitutional amendments. However, these bills did not progress to a vote in either the Texas House or Senate.
Representative Geren’s House Joint Resolution 97 has brought the possibility of legal casino gaming in Texas to the forefront of legislative discussions. The proposal offers voters the opportunity to express their views on this significant policy change through the November ballot. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders and citizens alike will closely monitor developments to determine the future of casino gaming in the Lone Star State.