Relating to the regulation of coin-operated machines.
Impact
The proposed changes within HB1848 are set to influence how licenses are issued, renewed, and possibly revoked for businesses operating coin-operated machines. The bill grants the comptroller authority to refuse or suspend licenses under certain conditions, such as violations of the regulations or false statements made in applications. This is expected to enhance accountability among businesses that deal with these machines, ensuring they adhere to legal standards and operational guidelines.
Summary
House Bill 1848 addresses the regulation of coin-operated machines in Texas, proposing amendments to the Occupations Code related to licensing and operational oversight of these machines. The bill aims to strengthen the regulatory framework by allowing the comptroller to provide confidential information to law enforcement agencies engaged in relevant investigations. This move is intended to enhance the ability of law enforcement to monitor and enforce compliance with state regulations concerning coin-operated gaming and vending devices.
Contention
While the bill appears to have a straightforward regulatory intent, potential points of contention could arise over the transparency and extent of information shared with law enforcement. Critics may argue that extending the comptroller's ability to disclose confidential information could lead to abuses or overreach, impacting the privacy of operators who might be affected by investigations without strong evidence of wrongdoing. Additionally, the balance between regulation and operational flexibility for businesses might lead to further debates regarding the necessity and impact of such regulations on small enterprises in the gaming and vending industry.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.