Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2603

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

Caption

Relating to the operation of casino gaming in this state by federally recognized Indian tribes on certain land; providing penalties; authorizing fees.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2603 would significantly alter the landscape of gaming legislation in Texas by formalizing the operation of casino gaming by Indian tribes under state law. It sets forth definitions and parameters for casino gaming, including types of authorized games and roles such as casino gaming managers. The bill lays down the requirement for compliance with the Texas Lottery Commission’s rules, thereby centralizing the oversight of gambling activities and addressing previous ambiguities about the legality of such operations in relation to tribal sovereignty.

Summary

House Bill 2603 aims to regulate the operation of casino gaming by federally recognized Indian tribes within the state of Texas. The bill establishes a framework for creating a gaming compact between the state and individual tribes, allowing them to conduct casino gaming on their designated lands. This legislation seeks to ensure that gaming operations adhere to stringent standards, including the issuance of necessary certifications for casino gaming managers and vendors, and mandates oversight by the Texas Lottery Commission. The bill highlights the governmental relationship between the state and tribes, as well as the recognition of tribal sovereignty in managing gaming activities.

Sentiment

The reception of HB 2603 appears to be mixed, reflecting a divide in sentiments towards casino gaming expansion. Proponents argue that the bill would bring much-needed economic development to tribal communities by providing jobs and generating revenue through gaming operations. However, opponents may express concerns regarding the potential social impacts of expanded gambling, including issues related to problem gambling and the integrity of the gaming industry. The balancing act between economic benefits for tribes and regulatory oversight by the state is likely to be a focal point of ongoing discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions surrounding HB 2603 involve the extent of state oversight versus tribal autonomy. While the bill aims to establish a cooperative governance mechanism, critics question whether such measures may undermine the independence that tribes traditionally exercise over their lands and resources. Additionally, the revenue sharing model, in which tribes are required to remit a portion of their gaming revenue to the state, presents another point of debate, as it raises questions about fairness and financial viability for tribal operations.

Companion Bills

TX HJR117

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the operation of casino games in this state by federally recognized Indian tribes on certain land.

Previously Filed As

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 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 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 HB1942

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.

TX SB715

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.

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 HB3583

Relating to the licensing and regulation of youth sports programs; providing civil and administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

TX HB1568

Relating to the licensing and regulation of child swim instruction operators; requiring an occupational license; imposing penalties, including administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

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