Texas Lawmakers under Pressure to Legalize Sports Betting
Efforts to legalize sports betting in Texas are gaining momentum ahead of the 2025 legislative session. Advocates argue that regulating the industry may address the state’s illegal betting problem and bring economic benefits.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The Texas Sports Betting Alliance, which represents major sports teams such as the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, Austin FC, and Texas Motor Speedway, is continually calling for action. The group believes that Texans wager an estimated $6 billion annually on unregulated sports betting. If legalized, then it is predicted that the state could generate over $360 million in annual tax revenue.
During the previous legislative session, the Texas House approved a resolution allowing voters to decide whether to amend the state constitution to permit sports betting. While the resolution cleared the House, it stalled in the Senate, largely due to opposition led by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. Patrick said that there was insufficient support among Senate Republicans and noted their focus on core GOP voter priorities.
However, John Scott, a spokesperson for the Texas Sports Betting Alliance and former Texas Secretary of State, is optimistic about the upcoming session. He recently said that greater pressure from voters could influence the Senate’s opinion and said that the earlier setback was due to a lack of communication between senators and their constituents about the public’s growing interest in sports betting. Scott is arguing that it is a matter of personal freedom and that Texans should have the right to decide how they spend their money.
Study Highlights Economic Benefits of Legal Sports Betting
Economic studies continue to reinforce the potential benefits of a regulated sports betting market. Research by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming estimates that legalizing sports betting could add $2.6 billion to Texas’s annual economic output. Additionally, it could generate $24.3 million in indirect income. Supporters argue this revenue could fund vital state services, including education and infrastructure projects.
Charlotte Jones, executive vice president of the Dallas Cowboys, has called for regulation and claims it would enhance fan engagement, protect consumers, and prevent Texas from losing revenue to neighboring states with legalized sports betting. She also spoke of the importance of keeping Texas competitive as other states continue to expand their sports betting markets.
More Regulation News
Public and Industry Support Grows
With public polls showing increasing support for legal sports betting, firms such as DraftKings and FanDuel are increasing their lobbying efforts. The growing industry confidence reflects the changing political landscape, even as resistance from key figures such as Patrick remains a significant hurdle.
The outcome of the 2025 session is uncertain, but the push to legalize sports betting in Texas is only growing in strength and advocates are hoping that with mounting public pressure and clear financial benefits, lawmakers will reconsider their stance and move closer to regulating the market.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
Latest News
Most Read
Mohegan's South Korea Casino Future a Concern as Loan Defaults Appear Imminent
Jan 02, 2025Must Read
Interviews
When Helping Others Is a Life-Long Mission - An Interview with Gordon Moody CEO, Monica Shafaq
Dec 17, 2024
Interviews
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for Texas Lawmakers under Pressure to Legalize Sports Betting