Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HJR86

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that gambling or other gaming activity by federally recognized Indian tribes on tribal land is not prohibited by Texas law.

Impact

The passage of HJR86 would make significant changes to the legal landscape surrounding gaming in Texas. It would amend Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution, which currently restricts gaming and lottery activities, to allow these specific tribal entities to conduct gambling without interference from state laws. The amendment aims to align state law with federal recognition of tribal rights and could enable these tribes to enhance their economic situation through regulated gaming activities, which may have broader impacts on local economies.

Summary

HJR86, a joint resolution, proposes a constitutional amendment that explicitly allows federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct gambling or other gaming activities on their own tribal land in Texas. The bill specifically mentions two tribes, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo in El Paso County and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe in Polk County. The proposed amendment aims to clarify that Texas law shall not prohibit or prevent these activities, nor may it be used in any legal actions against them for such activities. This change aims to not only protect the tribes' rights but also potentially enhance economic development within those tribal lands through gaming revenues.

Contention

There are potential points of contention relating to HJR86, particularly regarding the implications for the state's overall gambling policies. Some lawmakers and community members may express concern over the expansion of gaming activities, fearing it could lead to increases in gambling-related issues within communities. Additionally, there could be opposition from other gaming entities or constituencies within Texas that may see this as preferential treatment for specific groups, thereby complicating the political landscape surrounding such amendments and creating debates over fairness and regulation.

Notable_points

HJR86 is notable for its focus on federal recognition and tribal sovereignty, emphasizing the relationship between state laws and tribal rights. The explicit mention of the two tribes highlights the unique situation in Texas, which has historically restricted gambling. This bill reflects a shift toward recognizing tribal governments' authority to govern their lands and conduct economic activities without excessive state intervention.

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 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 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 HJR156

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the governor to negotiate and execute gaming compacts with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and to authorize those tribes to sue this state if the governor fails to negotiate in good faith.

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 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 HJR29

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that a residence homestead is not subject to seizure or sale for delinquent ad valorem taxes.

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 HJR138

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas land and water conservation fund to assist in preserving critical natural resources in this state.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.