Texas House Bill HB1955

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/6/11
• Voted on by House: 4/15/11
• Engrossed: 4/15/11
• Refer: 4/20/11

Caption

Relating to contracting with a lottery operator by the Texas Lottery Commission.

Impact

The bill introduces significant amendments to the criteria under which the executive director may license lottery operators. By specifying the eligibility for contracting and sales agent licensing, it provides greater flexibility for the executive director to dictate terms, conditions, and rates for these lottery operations. The alterations suggest a move towards broader discretion for the Texas Lottery Commission to expand its operational framework and possibly improve its efficiency in managing lottery activities across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1955 addresses the process of contracting with a lottery operator by the Texas Lottery Commission. This bill modifies existing provisions of the Government Code, specifically focusing on sections that relate to how the executive director of the Commission can engage with individuals or entities for lottery operations. Essentially, HB1955 aims to streamline the process of contracting and clarifies the conditions under which lottery operators can be licensed as sales agents.

Contention

Notably, some aspects of HB1955 could raise concerns among stakeholders who worry about the implications of granting extensive contracting authority. Critics may argue that such flexibility could lead to inconsistencies in the approach to licensing and oversight, potentially affecting the integrity of lottery operations. Discussions may revolve around accountability measures and the need for transparency in how the Texas Lottery Commission executes its contracting responsibilities, with some advocating for stricter guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest.

Notable_points

Another significant point of contention involves the amendments regarding eligibility criteria for sales agents, particularly concerning individuals with criminal backgrounds or those deemed to have moral turpitude. The bill establishes a more lenient framework by explicitly altering previous disqualifications, thus allowing certain individuals to apply under new conditions. Proponents of the bill argue that such reforms are necessary to encourage participation and competition among lottery operators, while opponents fear it may compromise ethical standards within the industry.