Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HJR47

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the legislature to establish a state gaming commission and to authorize and provide for the regulation of gaming conducted at certain locations in this state, authorizing federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct gaming on certain Indian lands, and requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session to consider gaming legislation.

Impact

If passed, HJR47 would significantly alter the landscape of gaming regulations in Texas by creating a formal structure under which gaming can be regulated. This would provide legal clarity and oversight, allowing for the potential introduction of new gaming establishments within the specified areas. Moreover, it could boost state revenues through gaming taxes and licensing fees while providing new economic development opportunities for both urban centers and coastal regions.

Summary

HJR47 proposes a constitutional amendment that requires the Texas legislature to establish a state gaming commission and provide regulations for gaming activities in specific locations throughout the state. This bill aims to authorize various types of gaming, including casino gaming, at specific coastal barrier islands, dredge spoil islands, locations with existing pari-mutuel wagering, and in municipalities with populations exceeding 675,000. Additionally, it includes provisions allowing federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct gaming on designated tribal lands.

Sentiment

The discussions around HJR47 appeared mixed. Proponents see the bill as a progressive step towards modernizing Texas' gaming laws, arguing that it could lead to enhanced tourism and economic growth in the areas affected. Detractors, however, express concerns regarding the implications of expanded gaming, raising ethical questions about gambling and its potential social consequences. They fear that the influx of casinos could lead to increased gambling addiction and related societal issues.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the extent of gaming expansion and the potential conflicts with local community values. Some opponents are worried that large-scale gaming operations, especially in municipalities, might overshadow local regulations and lead to negative social outcomes. Furthermore, the provision allowing Indian tribes to conduct gaming has sparked debates about fairness and equity in gaming opportunities among different groups within Texas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 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

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 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 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 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.

TX SJR71

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session following certain disaster or emergency declarations and specifying the powers of the legislature in those special sessions.

TX HJR32

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.

TX HJR102

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events and requiring the legislature to dedicate to property tax relief at least 98 percent of the net state tax revenue generated from the wagering on sporting events.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.