TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1988

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1988

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the abolishment of the state lottery.

Impact

If SB1988 is enacted, it will repeal existing laws governing the state lottery, thereby impacting how lottery prizes are administered and regulated. All rights, contracts, and obligations related to lottery operations will be transferred to the Texas Lottery Commission, which will be responsible for ensuring that all outstanding lottery prizes continue to be honored. The bill establishes that any lottery-related funds will be redirected to the Foundation School Program, suggesting a notable reallocation of state finances towards education rather than gambling revenues.

Summary

Senate Bill 1988 proposes the abolishment of the state lottery in Texas, a significant shift in the state's gaming policies. This change entails repealing Chapter 466 of the Government Code, which currently regulates lottery operations, and making amendments to related sections that govern commission operations and eligibility. The bill aims to streamline government functions by dissolving the lottery division of the Texas Lottery Commission and transferring its duties to the broader Commission. The intent appears to be reducing government complexity and possible misuse of funds related to the lottery.

Contention

Discussion around the bill is likely to be contentious, as it addresses a topic that has long been defended and promoted as a means of generating state revenue. Critics may argue that abolishing the lottery could lead to a reduction in funding for various state programs that benefit from lottery proceeds. Supporters of the bill may contend that it is time to end a state-run lottery system that can be viewed as promoting gambling addiction or misuse of state resources. The final decisions and stakeholder reactions could significantly influence the bill's progress through the legislative process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 466. State Lottery
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 467. Texas Lottery Commission
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 024
    • Section: 031
    • Section: 035
    • Section: 101
    • Section: 108
    • Section: 111

Latest SB1988 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB2918

Identical Relating to the abolishment of the state lottery.

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