Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HJR119

Filed

Out of House Committee

Introduced

3/7/11

Voted on by House

Refer

3/15/11

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Sent toSOS

Proposed Const. Amend.

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize the operation of video gaming in this state by persons and organizations licensed to conduct bingo or lease bingo premises and providing that federally recognized Indian tribes are not prohibited from conducting gaming on certain Indian lands.

Impact

If adopted, HJR119 would fundamentally change the legal landscape surrounding gaming in Texas, particularly for charitable organizations that utilize bingo for fundraising. The proposed legislation outlines regulatory frameworks for video gaming, including licensing, revenue distribution, and enforcement against unauthorized gaming devices. It permits a limited number of gaming terminals based on the revenue from bingo operations in prior years, which could increase the opportunities for charitable organizations to benefit financially from video game operations. This structured approach aims to balance recreational gaming with statewide regulatory oversight.

Summary

HJR119 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would permit the Texas Legislature to legalize video gaming operations within the state. Specifically, it allows persons and organizations licensed to conduct bingo or lease bingo premises to operate video games. Additionally, it ensures that federally recognized Indian tribes can conduct gaming activities on certain trust lands. The amendment seeks to modify Section 47 of Article III of the Texas Constitution to accommodate this new class of gaming while maintaining protections against unauthorized gambling operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HJR119 appears to resonate positively among proponents who view it as an opportunity to enhance revenue streams for charitable organizations. Supporters laud the proposal for potentially stimulating local economies and providing additional funding avenues. However, there may also be counterarguments from individuals who express concerns about the implications of legalizing video gaming, especially regarding addiction and social issues associated with gambling. The discussions suggest a mixture of optimism about economic benefits alongside caution regarding the social repercussions of expanded gaming.

Contention

A notable point of contention involves the balance between allowing gaming to foster economic growth and addressing concerns over gambling addiction and regulation. Some critics fear that expanding gaming could lead to increased gambling-related issues within communities. Additionally, the legitimacy and regulation of gaming operations conducted by Indian tribes create a complexity in the legislative conversation, as these entities may operate under different legal frameworks. Overall, the bill raises discussions around community needs, responsible gaming provisions, and the potential impacts on various stakeholders in the state.

Latest TX HJR119 Activity

View All Events: TX 2011 - 82nd Regular HJR119

Companion Bills

TX HB2424

Enabled by Relating to the operation of video gaming by authorized organizations and commercial operators that are licensed to conduct bingo or lease bingo premises; providing penalties.

TX SJR35

Identical Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize the operation of video gaming in this state by persons and organizations licensed to conduct bingo or lease bingo premises and providing that federally recognized Indian tribes are not prohibited from conducting gaming on certain Indian lands.

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

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 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 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 HJR93

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners or similar gaming devices; authorizing a fee.

TX SJR39

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

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.