[my_adsense_shortcode_1]
AUSTIN (KXAN)– As legislators put together for the subsequent legislative session to start in lower than two weeks, Texas gamblers and particular curiosity teams hope that is the 12 months for legalized sports activities betting.
“There’s real buzz for the 2023 legislative session, that something could get done in Texas thing year,” regulatory reporter Robert Linnehan mentioned. “There is a long way to go. You’re not going to be able to bet on March Madness or anything like that. But in 2024, you could see sports betting in Texas.”
State Senator Carol Alvarado (D-Houston) has already pre-filed laws that might not solely legalize sports activities wagers, however pave the best way for Texas to turn out to be a playing vacation spot.
SJR 17 would set up the Texas Gaming Commission and permit a restricted variety of “destination resorts” to conduct on line casino gaming. It faces an uphill climb within the legislature.
“I haven’t had anyone mention it to me, that they are interested in doing anything,” Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick instructed KXAN concerning the Senate’s urge for food for brand new playing legal guidelines. “A lot of talk out there, but I don’t see any movement on it.”
Gambling legalization would require amending the Texas Constitution — a course of that’s way more widespread than on the federal stage however will nonetheless create substantial hurdles for any laws touching the subject. Constitutional amendments require approval from two-thirds of the House and Senate, after which approval from a majority of Texas voters.
That’s not stopping some high-dollar pursuits from making an attempt, although.
Former Gov. Rick Perry has thrown his voice behind the Texas Sports Betting Alliance, becoming a member of {many professional} sports activities franchises in making an attempt to bolster the state’s wagering choices.
“Texans are already participating in mobile sports betting. Legalization would be a home run for all involved,” he mentioned. “Neighboring states are cashing in on Texans’ bets.”
Current legislators, nonetheless, are nonetheless skeptical.
“I haven’t seen any bills filed on it,” Patrick mentioned, regardless of Democrat Alvarado’s pre-filed invoice, by Republicans.
[my_adsense_shortcode_1]
story by Source link
[my_taboola_shortcode_1]
