Texas Senate Bill SJR51

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Tribe and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas to conduct all forms of gaming on certain tribal land and requiring the tribes to annually pay five percent of net proceeds from gaming to the comptroller of public accounts for deposit in the general revenue fund.

Impact

If enacted, SJR51 would amend Section 47(a) of Article III of the Texas Constitution. The bill clarifies that the state of Texas will have no civil or criminal regulatory authority over the gaming operations conducted by these tribes on their designated lands, provided they comply with federal guidelines. This would not only expand the scope of gaming for the tribes but also help in boosting their economic development by allowing them to engage freely in all forms of gaming including lotteries and betting, which were previously restricted.

Summary

SJR51 proposes a constitutional amendment that permits the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Tribe and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas to conduct all forms of gaming on their tribal lands. This initiative aims to provide the tribes with the same gaming rights as other recognized tribes in Texas, which is a significant step forward in terms of tribal sovereignty and economic opportunity. The bill stipulates that these tribes will be required to pay five percent of their net gaming proceeds to the state’s general revenue fund annually, thereby potentially enhancing state revenues while granting the tribes greater autonomy in their economic activities.

Contention

While proponents argue that SJR51 is a necessary measure for enhancing economic development within the tribal communities, opponents may view it as an increased potential for gambling expansion in Texas, raising concerns about the social impacts associated with gaming. Additionally, the financial implications for the state in terms of revenue could spark debate regarding the ethics of benefiting from gambling profits while addressing issues like problem gambling and community welfare. The passage of the bill could also lead to discussions about the fairness of gaming rights granted to certain tribes but not others, potentially creating a divide among various tribal entities in Texas.