The future of gambling in Texas is a topic of ongoing debate, with proponents advocating for expanded options and opponents raising concerns about social and economic impacts.
Current Legal Landscape
As of 2025, Texas maintains some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. The state’s constitution prohibits most forms of gambling, including traditional casino games and sports betting. Legal gambling activities are limited to the state-run lottery, charitable bingo, and three tribal casinos offering Class II gaming.
Texas Gambling Updates
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Texas Gambling Updates
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Texas Gambling Updates
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Wikipedia
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Efforts to Legalize Sports Betting and Casinos
In February 2025, State Senator Carol Alvarado introduced Senate Joint Resolution 16, proposing the legalization of up to seven destination resort casinos and retail sports betting in Texas. The resolution also aimed to establish a Texas Gaming Commission to oversee the new gaming industry. However, such proposals face significant hurdles, including the need for a two-thirds majority in both legislative chambers and approval from voters in a statewide referendum .
Wikipedia
Opposition and Challenges
Opposition to expanded gambling in Texas remains strong, particularly from conservative and religious groups. These groups argue that gambling leads to social issues such as addiction and crime and that the economic benefits do not outweigh the potential costs. Additionally, there are concerns that legalizing gambling could undermine the state’s lottery revenues, which are dedicated to education funding.
