Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HJR152

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the operation of casino games in this state by federally recognized Indian tribes on certain land and by licensed operators at horse and greyhound racetracks and licensed locations.

Impact

If enacted, HJR152 would amend Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution, allowing casino games to operate under specific regulations. This legislation would pave the way for legalized gambling, particularly at locations where pari-mutuel wagering is already permitted. Moreover, it means that revenue generated from these activities could be redirected towards local municipalities affected by casino operations, providing new funding avenues for community initiatives. The amendment outlines stringent regulations, including a licensing process and background checks for operators, reinforcing the state’s commitment to safeguarding public welfare amid these gaming activities.

Summary

HJR152 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution that would authorize the operation of casino games by federally recognized Indian tribes and licensed operators at horse and greyhound racetracks. The bill aims to formalize the legislative framework for casino gaming operations, allowing for regulation and oversight to ensure compliance with state laws. This constitutional amendment is positioned to potentially enhance the state's economic landscape by legalizing and regulating gambling activities that are otherwise prohibited under current laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR152 varies significantly among stakeholders. Proponents, including economic advocacies and certain legislative members, view the bill as a mechanism for stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and increasing state revenues. However, opponents raise concerns about the social implications and potential increase in gambling-related issues within communities. The discourse embodies a complex interplay of economic interests against community welfare considerations, contributing to a divided legislative atmosphere concerning the bill's anticipated benefits and drawbacks.

Contention

A significant point of contention regarding HJR152 involves the regulation of gambling and its implications on local governance. Critics express apprehension that expanded gambling could lead to adverse social impacts, including addiction and societal deterioration in heavily trafficked areas around casino operations. Furthermore, some question the effectiveness of state oversight versus tribal sovereignty in managing gambling operations. This highlights a broader debate on balancing economic opportunity with community-centric values in shaping the state’s legislative framework. Ultimately, the discussions surrounding HJR152 are emblematic of ongoing conflicts over gambling legislation in Texas.

Companion Bills

TX HB3576

Enabled by Relating to the operation of casino gaming in this state by federally recognized Indian tribes on certain land and by licensed operators at horse and greyhound racetracks and licensed locations; providing penalties.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR155

Proposing a constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth, provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety programs, support the horse racing industry, and reform horse racing and greyhound racing by authorizing casino gaming at destination resorts, authorizing sports wagering, authorizing Tribal-State compacts with federally recognized Indian tribes, and creating the Texas Gaming Commission to regulate casino gaming and sports wagering; requiring a license to conduct casino gaming; and requiring the imposition of a casino gaming tax, sports wagering tax, and license application fees.

TX HJR105

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the operation of five casinos in this state by licensed persons in certain counties that have approved casino gaming to provide funding for public education; providing for the requirement of occupational licenses, the authorization of fees, the imposition of a tax, and the provision of criminal penalties.

TX HJR84

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

TX SJR30

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

TX SJR17

Proposing a constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth and to provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety by creating the Texas Gaming Commission, authorizing and regulating casino gaming at a limited number of destination resorts and facilities licensed by the commission, authorizing sports wagering, requiring occupational licenses to conduct casino gaming, and requiring the imposition of a tax.

TX HB2843

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.

TX HJR97

Proposing a constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth, provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety programs, and reform and support the horse racing industry by authorizing casino gaming at destination resorts, creating the Texas Gaming Commission, authorizing sports wagering, requiring a license to conduct casino gaming, and requiring the imposition of a gaming and sports wagering tax and license application fees.

TX SJR90

Proposing a constitutional amendment to protect the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas by authorizing it to conduct gaming on certain lands under state law.

TX HJR156

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the governor to negotiate and execute gaming compacts with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and to authorize those tribes to sue this state if the governor fails to negotiate in good faith.

TX HB4115

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.