Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives to create a joint interim committee to study the gaming industry in Texas and its potential direct and indirect economic impact on specific markets and on the state as a whole.
Impact
The bill claims that Texas communities are currently losing significant tax revenue and business opportunities to surrounding states with thriving gaming industries, such as Louisiana and Oklahoma. Estimates suggest that Texans' discretionary spending on gaming could amount to billions of dollars annually, funds that would be redirected to the Texas economy if in-state gaming options were available. This change could potentially generate substantial tax revenues for the state government, estimated between $3 billion and $4.5 billion, alongside an overall annual economic impact reaching as high as $50 billion through related developments.
Summary
HCR220, introduced by Representative Kuempel, requests the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house to create a joint interim committee to study the gaming industry in Texas. The resolution highlights the potential economic impact that a legally regulated gaming industry could have on Texas' economy, particularly in terms of job creation, tax revenue, and enhancing local communities. By considering both direct and indirect economic benefits from gaming, the bill emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy to develop this sector effectively within the state.
Contention
While the bill's proponents argue for the economic stimulus that gaming could provide, there may be points of contention regarding the regulation and social implications of expanded gaming in Texas. As communities are encouraged to explore their options in developing local gaming establishments, concerns about gambling addiction, the integrity of the gaming operations, and the capacity of local infrastructure to handle increased tourism and traffic may arise. Hence, the joint interim committee's research will need to address these potential challenges while developing recommendations for the upcoming legislature.
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Requesting that the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House of Representatives create a joint interim committee to study issuance of credit against required recapture payments for Gulf Coast county school districts with excess facilities costs.
Requesting that the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House of Representatives create a joint interim committee to study issuance of credit against required recapture payments for Gulf Coast county school districts with excess facilities costs.
Requesting that the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House of Representatives create a joint interim committee to study issuance of credit against required recapture payments for Gulf Coast county school districts with excess facilities costs.
Requesting that the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House of Representatives create a joint interim committee to study issuance of credit against required recapture payments for Gulf Coast county school districts with excess facilities costs.