Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Impact
If passed, SB1245 would directly impact local governance by enabling communities to decide whether to allow eight-liners in their jurisdictions. The legislation outlines the procedure by which local elections can be called, necessitating petitions from qualified voters, with the successful passage of these propositions leading to the legalization of such devices. This shift could lead to changes in local economies, particularly in municipalities that may benefit from increased gaming operations and associated revenues, while potentially raising concerns about gambling-related issues in communities that prefer prohibition.
Summary
SB1245 seeks to establish a regulatory framework for 'eight-liners,' a type of electronic gambling device, by allowing local option elections to determine their legality in various political subdivisions. The bill proposes a fee structure that imposes a $350 annual fee on each eight-liner operated within the state, with specific exemptions for those held for resale. This fee aims to generate revenue for both state and local governments while regulating the operation of these gaming machines. Moreover, the bill amends existing laws related to gambling to clarify the legal status of eight-liners in areas where they are approved through election.
Sentiment
Discussions surrounding SB1245 reflect a range of sentiments, with proponents arguing that legalizing eight-liners will create additional revenue streams for local governments and enhance entertainment options for residents. On the contrary, opponents express concerns regarding the potential societal impacts of expanding gambling, including addiction and related crime rates. This divergence of views underscores the tension between local autonomy in decision-making and the broader implications of gambling policies in the state.
Contention
A notable point of contention is the balance of local versus state control over gambling regulations. Proponents of the bill assert that it empowers local communities to decide what is best for their residents, promoting local governance. Meanwhile, critics argue that the introduction of eight-liners may lead to a proliferation of gambling in vulnerable areas, potentially exacerbating socioeconomic issues. As local elections could lead to a 'patchwork' of regulations, this raises questions about the consistency of gambling laws across different jurisdictions.
Identical
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners or similar gaming devices; authorizing a fee.
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.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and imposing a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of amusement redemption machines and imposing a fee on amusement redemption machines; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.
Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners and the imposition of a fee on eight-liner owners; providing penalties.