Although Texas hasn't legalized sports betting yet, could there be hope in sight? As of early 2023, Texas remains behind many other states in adopting legal sports betting, yet there are grounds for optimism regarding its future.
Most other states have successfully established some form of legal sports betting. It feels surreal to recall how things were just a few years back in 2017. In fact, Delaware made history by allowing single-game sports betting for the first time in the US on June 5, 2018.
In May 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states could formulate their own sports betting regulations. Subsequently, a flurry of states raced to set up their sports betting frameworks as quickly as they could.
In contrast, Texas is taking a more deliberate approach to sports betting legislation. This isn’t due to a lack of attempts, as there have been various efforts to push for its legalization.
Texas and California Share a Similarity
The number of states in the US without legalized sports betting is becoming increasingly sparse. Currently, Texas and California stand out as the two largest states that still prohibit it.
Recently, voters in California rejected a sports betting initiative known as Propositions 26 and 27. While this doesn’t mean that legalized sports betting is off the table permanently in California, it does indicate that the majority of voters were opposed to it in the last election.
Proposition 26 aimed to legalize in-person sports betting at physical locations, whereas Proposition 27 focused on online betting. Neither measure came close to securing a victory in the latest voting.
With the rejection of sports betting for the time being, it may take a significant stretch of time before California sees this form of gambling legalized, likely not until after 2024. Even if a vote passes, a comprehensive framework would still need to be set up.
Both California and Texas represent massive opportunities for private sports betting companies. California, being the most populous state in the nation, and Texas, holding the second-largest population, are both greatly sought after.
Sports Betting In Texas
Currently, Texas lacks a legal structure for sports betting, placing it in a similar situation as California, although there are hopes to initiate the process ahead of California.
Could 2023 be the pivotal year for legalizing sports betting in Texas? Many observers believe that California will not have any approved legislation for the upcoming year.
Meanwhile, in Texas, this year could indeed mark a significant advancement for sports betting if all goes well. The state not only lacks legal online betting but also lacks any permitted in-person sports betting options.
Poker room establishments are gaining traction in Texas. In the past, authorities frequently shut down these poker clubs, yet they are now permitted to function in a gray area while their status is being assessed.
The Texas government is also softening its approach to sports betting and casino gambling. They recognize that allowing sports betting could generate considerable revenue for the state. However, the success of this legalization hinges on whether Texas voters will approve it.
Sports Betting Bill Must Be Approved
Let’s recap the history of sports betting efforts in Texas so far. The debate on this issue began nationwide in 2018 when the Supreme Court ruled to allow states autonomy in this area.
This isn’t Texas’s first attempt to legalize sports betting. A bill in 2021 fell significantly short of reaching the voters.
For the 2022 bill, Texas’s initial task is to secure support from 66% of lawmakers. A two-thirds majority from the state legislature is necessary for the sports betting bill to progress. Without this approval, voters won't have the chance to weigh in on the matter.
TX SJR17
Known as TX SJR17 The bill was put forward by Senator Carol Alvarado on November 14, 2022. If the bill is passed, it would establish the Texas Gaming Commission, which would oversee the legalization of sports betting.
The bill doesn’t specify whether online sports betting will be included in its provisions. Notably, Native American casinos could stand to gain significantly, similar to experiences in Maine and other states. Minnesota The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino, Speaking Rock Casino, and Naskila Casino remain the only legal gaming establishments in Texas. These venues are anticipated to offer sports betting if the state proceeds with legalization.
In addition to these venues, an expansion of casino options in Texas may occur. Should the new gambling bill advance, it would require licensees to invest in creating a resort destination within the state, potentially bringing substantial investment to sports betting operations.
Could Texas sports betting appear on the ballot in November 2023? casino gambling in Texas .
The Texas legislative session is set to commence on January 10, 2023, concluding toward the end of May. This timeframe will give state lawmakers the opportunity to vote on TX SJR17.
To move forward, the bill needs at least 66% of votes in favor. If it doesn’t achieve this threshold, it will be halted immediately. Nonetheless, optimism is high that this will be passed smoothly.
If it goes through the necessary legislative processes, Texas sports betting could indeed be presented to voters in November 2023. At this point, Texans will have the chance to express their opinions at the ballot box.
Will the voters of Texas align with their counterparts in California? If Texas votes positively for sports betting, diverging from California's rejection, implementation can begin alongside consultation with Native American tribes. The bill would also need the approval of Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
While this seems straightforward, challenges may arise, as seen in North Dakota and other states, where negotiations can get complicated. The stakes are high, and all parties involved, including Native American casinos, will want their fair share.
What’s next for TX SJR17 following its pushback from House Bill 2070? Minnesota Legal sports betting in Texas has faced various setbacks previously. House Bill 2070 aimed to establish a sports betting licensing scheme in the state but failed to progress in 2021.
This proposal didn’t gain traction and was shelved before it could even be presented to the state House or Senate. According to state Representative Dan Huberty, the intent of this bill was to create $180 million in tax revenue in its first year, with estimates of up to $400 million in subsequent years.
The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas voiced dissatisfaction with HB 2070, noting it fell short in addressing gambling expansion rights for indigenous tribes.
This time, the concerns of Native American tribes seem to be receiving more attention. Yet, the portion of gambling revenue allocated to the state is anticipated to be a major point of contention.
What might the future hold for legal sports betting in Texas? There is considerable hope that Texas will eventually introduce sports betting. The question now is more about timing rather than possibility.
Looking at how state lawmakers may vote, it currently appears likely they will approve it without facing significant pushback.
The Future of Texas Sports Betting
In the state legislature during the early part of 2022, contextual discussions were ongoing.
If the current initiative fails, TX SJR17 could share the same fate as House Bill 2070. However, there’s a reason to believe that this time might hold more promise for TX SJR17. Expect news on the bill passing The main challenge may not arise from lawmakers or the electorate, but rather from Native American tribes. Their own interests will likely influence the negotiations significantly.
Watching the dynamics between Texas and the tribes in 2023 will be intriguing. Given the substantial stakes involved, we expect some resolution to be reached. While aiming for a launch date in 2023 may be overly ambitious, the chance of placing bets by 2024 seems more realistic.
If you’re enthusiastic about Texas sports betting and awaiting legalization, explore the top platforms recommended by TheSportsGeek.
Kyle Eve has been the Editor-in-Chief of The Sports Geek since 2012, serving millions of readers with insightful analysis. After placing his first sports bet on his 18th birthday, he has dedicated himself to mastering the art of betting. He's had the opportunity to cover many major sporting events globally, from the Super Bowl to the Kentucky Derby, and currently resides in Windsor, Ontario.
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