Texas House Bill HJR23

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners.

Impact

If this resolution is passed and the amendment is adopted, it could significantly alter the regulatory landscape for gaming devices in Texas. Communities would gain substantial authority to regulate the presence of eight-liners based on local sentiments, enabling municipal and county leaders to address their constituents' preferences. Additionally, the legislature would be empowered to establish parameters for the operation of these devices and potentially impose fees, which could create new revenue streams for local governments depending on the outcome of the elections.

Summary

HJR23 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would allow local option elections for the legalization or prohibition of eight-liners, which are popular gaming devices. The amendment seeks to amend Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution, specifically authorizing the legislature to regulate these devices. Under the proposed amendment, qualified voters within any county, justice precinct, or municipality would have the right to decide, through majority vote, if eight-liners can be legally operated within their jurisdictions. This local control is intended to accommodate the differing views on gaming within various communities across Texas.

Contention

The proposed HJR23 may encounter contention regarding the implications of expanding gaming options in Texas. Proponents of the resolution argue that it is crucial for empowering local communities to make decisions that align with their values and reduce illegal gaming operations. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential increase in gambling-related issues, such as addiction and crime, asserting that it may not be in the best interests of all Texans to legalize such devices at a local level. The resolution thus opens a debate on balancing regulation and community autonomy while addressing the associated social implications.