Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR105

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the operation of casino games in this state by licensed persons in counties that have approved casino gaming; providing for certification or licensing of persons engaged in occupations related to casino gaming.

Impact

The passage of HJR105 would significantly alter the legal landscape of gaming in Texas, transitioning from a ban on casino operations to a regulated system of licensed operators. If enacted, it could lead to increased economic activity in counties that approve casino gaming, generating new sources of revenue through gaming taxes. Additionally, it represents a shift in state policy towards a more permissive approach to legalized gambling, aligning with trends in other states that have embraced casino gaming as an economic development strategy.

Summary

HJR105 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the operation of casino games in Texas, specifically by licensed operators in counties that have voted to approve casino gaming. The resolution seeks to amend Article III of the Texas Constitution to include provisions that govern the licensure and operation of casino games. A local election would be held in each applicable county, allowing voters to decide on the authorization of casino gaming before any licenses can be issued. This amendment also calls for a comprehensive licensing program which includes background checks for potential operators and strict monitoring to ensure public safety and integrity in gaming operations.

Contention

While the bill could potentially revitalized local economies, it is not without controversy. Opponents might argue that expanded gaming could lead to increased social issues related to gambling, such as addiction and crime. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the equitable distribution of gaming revenues, with advocates for local communities pushing for assurances that funds generated would directly benefit the counties where gaming operations are conducted. The bill's success will largely depend on local voter support, indicating a potential divide in public opinion on gambling within the state.

Companion Bills

TX HB2329

Enabled by Relating to the operation of casino gaming in this state by licensed persons in counties that have approved casino gaming; requiring occupational licenses or certifications; creating criminal offenses and providing other penalties; authorizing fees.

Previously Filed As

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 HB4446

Relating to certain licensing and permitting requirements for game rooms; authorizing an occupational permit or license; authorizing a fee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.