Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HJR129

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the state to operate video lottery games at certain horse and greyhound racetracks and providing that federally recognized Indian tribes are not prohibited from conducting gaming on certain Indian lands.

Impact

If enacted, HJR129 would significantly alter the landscape of gaming in Texas, allowing for state-operated video lottery games at specified locations. The law requires comprehensive regulations governing the operation of these terminals, including monitoring, registration programs for vendors, and licensing. This could lead to increased funding for state programs, depending on the volume of lottery activity, and provide a structured framework for overseeing gaming operations at racetracks.

Summary

HJR129 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the state of Texas to operate video lottery games at certain horse and greyhound racetracks. The bill seeks to amend Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution, providing not only for the state-controlled video lottery system but also clarifying that federally recognized Indian tribes are permitted to conduct gaming on specific tribal lands. This amendment aims to create additional revenue sources for the state through the operation of video lottery terminals.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR129 may arise from concerns about the regulation and oversight of gambling activities. Supporters argue that this measure can considerably benefit state revenue without impeding local economies. However, opponents may express concerns about the expansion of gambling, particularly regarding potential social implications and the moral considerations of state-sponsored gaming. Additionally, the position of various local governments regarding the implementation and control of such gaming facilities could lead to further debate.

Additional_context

The proposed amendment will be submitted to voters at an election scheduled for November 3, 2009, reflecting the democratic process in determining public support for the initiative. This bill represents a notable shift in how Texas approaches gambling legislation, opening the door for potentially significant changes to current state laws affecting gaming and lottery operations.

Companion Bills

TX HB4062

Enabled by Relating to authorizing the operation of video lottery games by licensed horse and greyhound racetrack operators, to providing a defense for the operation of video lottery by Indian tribes, to the authority of the Texas Lottery Commission and the Texas Racing Commission, and to the conduct of gambling in this state; 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 SJR39

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.