Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR35

Filed

Out of Senate Committee

Introduced

3/7/11

Voted on by Senate

Refer

3/16/11

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

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, SJR35 would significantly amend the Texas Constitution by adding provisions that govern the operation of video gaming. The resolution outlines a variety of regulatory measures that would need to be implemented for lawful video gaming operations, including rigorous licensing processes, mandatory background checks, age restrictions, and defined uses for gaming proceeds. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for unauthorized gaming and promotes responsible gaming practices to ensure public safety and integrity in gaming operations, particularly in relation to charitable organizations that conduct bingo.

Summary

SJR35 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature of Texas to legalize video gaming operations. This legislation specifically targets organizations and individuals licensed to conduct bingo and aims to create a regulated framework for video gaming in Texas. The amendment also safeguards the rights of federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct video gaming on specified tribal lands. By allowing the legislature to set the conditions and regulations around video gaming, the bill seeks to establish a comprehensive approach that addresses both the potential economic benefits and the need for oversight in gaming operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR35 appears to be mixed among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters argue that legalizing video gaming could generate additional revenue for the state and support charitable organizations that depend on bingo-related funding. They emphasize the potential for economic growth through tourism and job creation connected to legalized gaming. However, opponents raise concerns about the social implications of expanding gaming activities, including the risk of gambling addiction and potential harm to local communities. The discourse emphasizes a balance between economic opportunity and the protection of citizens.

Contention

One prominent point of contention in discussions around SJR35 is the provision allowing Indian tribes to conduct video gaming on their lands without the prohibitions normally applicable to state gaming regulations. Critics contend that this may lead to inequities in gaming regulations across Texas, as tribal gaming may not be subject to the same scrutiny as commercial operations. There are also apprehensions regarding the potential for an increase in gambling-related issues within communities and the effectiveness of the proposed regulations in addressing those concerns. Overall, the debate highlights the tension between advancing economic interests through gaming and safeguarding public welfare.

Latest TX SJR35 Activity

View All Events: TX 2011 - 82nd Regular SJR35

Companion Bills

TX SB1212

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 HJR119

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.