Texas Casino & Sports Betting Advocates Align for Possible Ballot Measure

Given the size and wealth of Texas' population, it's understandable why the Texas gambling market is so attractive. There are billions of dollars to be made by gambling operators and the State of Texas from tax revenue.

At issue is the fact that Texas lawmakers are struggling to create any meaningful gambling expansion legislation, In this case, gambling expansion refers to the development of retail casinos to be followed by the inclusion of online sports betting and casino gambling.

For three years now, casino and sports betting interests have been advocating for their respective industries with little to no success. All of that is about to change as proponents of casino and sports gambling expansion are ready to join forces and try to move forward.

The First Step - Change the Texas Constitution

There is nothing in the current Texas State Constitution that permits the legalization of casino gambling and sports betting of any kind. Therefore, the Constitution would have to be amended to allow for such activities.

In Texas, the Constitution can only be amended via a ballot measure that is presented to voters. In the recent past, casino and sports betting interests have focused on trying to push forward their respective ballot measures to no avail. Most of the blame for these difficulties goes to in-fighting groups of interest parties and difficulty getting Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to put his support behind any constitutional amendment resolution.

To potentially resolve these past issues, all interested parties have decided to set their individual interests aside in favor of a ballot measure that would benefit everyone.

In a recent discussion with reporters from PlayUSA.com, Andy Abboud, Las Vegas Sands Senior Vice President of Government Relations Andy Abboud, pushed for an alignment of gambling expansion proponents. He stated:

“There is a distinct possibility that there could just be one bill this session,” Abboud said. “I think we’re all working to see if there’s a consideration to make it one bill, a simpler bill that just removes the prohibition against gambling.”

Moving Forward

It's noteworthy that the Texas legislature only meets during odd-numbered years. That has given gambling expansion proponents a full year to come up with a new plan of attack.

It's important to remember that some progress was made in 2023 when a sports betting constitutional amendment was passed in the Texas House by a vote of 101-42. It was a narrow victory given that 100 votes were needed. Unfortunately, the amendment legislation fizzled out without the support of Patrick and the Texas Senate.

Meanwhile, an attempt to get a casino amendment through the House died on the vine, receiving only 92 votes. It was a good showing just not good enough.

At this point, sports betting interests, including key Texas professional sports teams might not need help from casino interests. However, the combined forces of both groups might be enough to tip the scales for the benefit of all parties. Note: Lt. Governor Patrick seems to be softening his adverse position on the whole idea of gambling expansion in the state.