Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.
Impact
If enacted, SB28 will impose stricter regulations on how lottery tickets can be purchased, effectively criminalizing actions such as ordering a ticket by phone or through an online service. It distinguishes between different levels of offenses, classifying violations related to selling or facilitating the sale of lottery tickets as misdemeanors depending on the nature of the offense. This legislation represents a tightening of existing gambling laws and will likely lead to increased scrutiny of operations related to lottery ticket sales that leverage modern technology.
Summary
Senate Bill 28 (SB28) proposes significant amendments to the state's regulations regarding lottery games, specifically focusing on prohibiting the play or facilitation of lottery games through telephone and internet applications. The bill lays out new criminal offenses to deter the unauthorized play of lottery games in these digital mediums. By strictly regulating these channels, SB28 aims to safeguard against underage gambling and ensure that lottery operations remain secure and properly run, thereby aligning with state laws governing gambling activities.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB28 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers who prioritize enhanced regulation to combat potential issues associated with online gambling. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in keeping lottery operations within safe and legal boundaries. However, there may be concerns among critics about the implications of limiting access to lottery games via digital platforms, particularly regarding convenience for users and potential revenue losses for state programs funded by lottery proceeds.
Contention
One notable point of contention regarding SB28 is whether the restrictions on online and mobile lottery participation may hinder access to lottery opportunities for certain segments of the population. Critics may argue that the bill effectively creates barriers for residents who prefer the convenience of digital transactions. Furthermore, the classifications of criminal offenses may raise debates about the fairness and proportionality of penalties for these new violations, potentially igniting discussions about the broader implications of regulating digital gambling.
Identical
Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.
Same As
Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.
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.
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 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.