TX
Texas House Bill HJR107

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HJR107

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to authorize and provide for regulating the conduct of gaming in this state and requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session to consider gaming legislation.

Impact

The proposed amendment seeks to allow for the development of a regulated gaming industry in Texas, highlighting the need for updated governance in response to evolving societal interests in gaming. By amending Article III, Section 47 of the Texas Constitution, HJR107 aims to create an official framework for gaming regulation while also addressing legal limitations that previously existed on lotteries and similar enterprises. This regulatory shift could potentially lead to enhanced state revenues through taxation and licensing fees associated with legalized gaming activities.

Summary

HJR107 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would grant the Texas legislature authority to regulate gaming activities within the state. This encompasses the establishment of a full-time state gaming commission that would oversee various types of gaming, including casino gaming, particularly in designated locations. The key areas highlighted for potential gaming operations include barrier islands adjacent to the Gulf coast, land held in trust by federally recognized Indian tribes, and municipalities with populations of 675,000 or greater, specifically aiming to capitalize on both tourism and controlled gaming environments.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HJR107 revolve around the social and economic impacts of legalized gaming in Texas. Advocates highlight the potential for job creation and increased revenue, which could benefit local economies and state funding for essential services. However, critics remain concerned about the implications of expanded gaming, including problems related to gambling addiction, community safety, and the ethical considerations of promoting gaming as a form of entertainment. Moreover, the involvement of the governor in calling special sessions to discuss gaming regulations raises questions about political motivations and the prioritization of legislative agendas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 SJR71

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session following certain disaster or emergency declarations and specifying the powers of the legislature in those special sessions.

TX SJR63

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to consider legislation on any subject during a special session.

TX HJR32

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.

TX HJR148

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a legislative session.

TX HJR46

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

TX SJR65

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

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 SJR57

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for legislative review and approval of state agency rules.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.