Texas Sports Betting Legislation: Current Landscape and Future Prospects

Online gambling and sports betting have been hot topics in Texas, a state traditionally conservative on gambling issues. While most forms of online gambling remain illegal in Texas, recent discussions in the state legislature suggest a potential shift in policy. Neighboring states have seen significant revenue from legal gambling, increasing pressure on Texas to reconsider its laws. This article delves into the current landscape of sports gambling in the Lone Star State, exploring its legality, historical context, and the potential market impact.

Sports betting, along with most other forms of gambling, remains illegal in Texas. Despite the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing states to legalize sports betting, Texas has yet to pass such legislation. Efforts to legalize sports betting have been unsuccessful, leaving residents without legal Texas sports betting sites. However, Daily Fantasy Sports platforms continue to operate in the state.

The state’s gambling laws are stringent, with limited casino gambling, poker rooms operating in gray zones, and some forms of wagering like parimutuel betting, a state lottery, and charitable bingo permitted. Texas remains a major untapped market for sports betting, attracting attention in legislative discussions nationwide.

Efforts to legalize sports betting in Texas gained momentum in 2021, with proposals for a constitutional amendment to regulate wagering. Major figures like Jerry Jones and Tilman Fertitta advocated for legalization to enhance fan engagement and state revenue. Despite bipartisan support and lobbying, bills for mobile sports betting and limited casino-style gambling failed in 2023 due to conservative opposition.

Texas’s neighboring states have embraced legal gambling, creating competitive markets that draw Texans across state lines. These states have seen significant revenue from legal sports betting, highlighting the untapped potential in Texas. Reports suggest Texas could generate substantial tax revenue and economic output from legalized sports betting, benefiting education and infrastructure.

House Joint Resolution 134 (HJR 134) seeks to legalize sports betting in Texas through a constitutional amendment. If approved, the amendment would authorize professional sports teams, golf organizations, and racetracks to host sports betting. The legislative process involves approval from both the House and Senate, with potential implementation in 2027.

Proponents argue that legalizing sports betting could boost tax revenue and fan engagement, while opponents cite concerns over social costs and gambling expansion. As neighboring states capitalize on legal sports betting, Texas lawmakers face mounting pressure to reconsider their stance.

The article highlights the benefits and drawbacks of legalizing sports betting in Texas, emphasizing economic opportunities and social concerns. It discusses the influence of professional sports teams, conservative lawmakers, and advocacy groups in shaping the debate on sports betting legislation.

While sports betting remains illegal in Texas, responsible gaming practices are essential for individuals engaging in gambling activities. Organizations like the Texas Council on Problem Gambling provide resources to help individuals manage their gambling habits. Despite restrictions, Texans have access to legal forms of betting like the state lottery, horse racing wagering, and charitable gaming.

The article concludes by providing insights into the best Texas sports betting sites, offering a comparison of top online sportsbooks based on various criteria like market variety, bonuses, and odds. It includes recommendations for Bovada, BetOnline, BetWhale, BetAnything, and EveryGame, highlighting their strengths and key features for Texas bettors. Additionally, it addresses common questions about sports betting in Texas, such as legality, available sports, and responsible gambling practices.