A new proposal seeks to authorize casino and sports betting in Texas.
SJR 17 was filed last week in Austin. It would allow voters to decide if gambling should be expanded in the Lone Star State.
The proposal reads: “A joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth and to provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety by creating the Texas Gaming Commission, authorizing and regulating casino gaming at a limited number of destination resorts and facilities licensed by the commission, authorizing sports wagering, requiring occupational licenses to conduct casino gaming, and requiring the imposition of a tax.”
According to the text, the issue would be put up to voters next year.
“This proposed constitutional amendment shall be submitted to the voters at an election to be held November 7, 2023. The ballot shall be printed to permit voting for or against the proposition: ‘The constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth and to provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety by creating the Texas Gaming Commission, authorizing casino gaming at a limited number of destination resorts and facilities licensed by the commission, and authorizing sports wagering.’”
Texas is one of the largest untapped sports betting markets in the nation.
According to the American Gaming Association, about 132 million American adults have access to a state-regulated sportsbook, up 18 million from 2021. Sports betting is currently legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. Of the 36 states, 32 have sportsbooks open for business. Four of the 36 are pending launch.
Voters in the state of California this fall rejected two proposals for sports betting.
California Prop 27 would have allowed for online sports betting. The likes of DraftKings, BetMGM and FanDuel were behind Prop 27. It was rejected by about 80% of voters. Prop 26, a proposal for retail-only sports betting, was defeated with 69.4% of voters rejecting it. California tribes supported Prop 26.
Florida is another major untapped sports betting market.
