Texas House Bill HJR111

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/3/11
• Refer: 3/10/11

Caption

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

Impact

If passed, HJR111 would mark a significant shift in the state's approach to gambling. It would necessitate the creation of laws governing the operation of video lottery terminals, including monitoring and licensing protocols. This could lead to increased state oversight of gambling activities and the potential for new revenue streams that would support various state programs. Additionally, the amendment would protect the rights of Indian tribes to engage in gaming, reflecting a growing recognition of tribal sovereignty within Texas.

Summary

HJR111 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to authorize the establishment of a state video lottery system in Texas. Under this amendment, video lottery games would be permitted at licensed horse and greyhound racetracks. Furthermore, the amendment clarifies that federally recognized Indian tribes are allowed to conduct games of chance on their trust lands, provided these lands were recognized as tribal land prior to 1998. The measure aims to generate additional revenue for state government programs through regulated video lottery operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR111 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the introduction of a regulated video lottery system could provide a much-needed boost to state finances and support local economies surrounding the racetracks. They see this as a chance to modernize the state's gambling framework and provide more options for bettors. Conversely, critics raise concerns about the implications of expanding gambling in Texas. They worry about potential negative social impacts, including addiction and crime, as well as the ethical considerations of state-sponsored gambling.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the balance of state regulation versus local autonomy, particularly concerning the rights of Indian tribes. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups express apprehensions about the potential for increased gambling activity in areas that may not have a historical context for such practices. Furthermore, the requirement for a subsequent enabling legislation to be passed before the amendment can take effect adds another layer of complexity, as the implications of such legislation and its potential success in the legislature remain uncertain.