Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR142

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 certain areas of this state by licensed persons to provide additional money for residual windstorm insurance coverage in the coastal areas; providing for certification or licensing of persons engaged in occupations related to casino gaming.

Impact

If enacted, the bill is expected to significantly affect state laws by formalizing the legal status of casino gaming in Texas, an area that has historically faced bans on such activities. The implementation of this amendment would not only enhance the state's regulatory framework surrounding gaming but also create a new revenue stream aimed at enhancing windstorm insurance coverage. Furthermore, the limitations imposed on the number of licensed locations will help manage the gaming landscape while preventing oversaturation.

Summary

HJR142 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the operation of casino games in specific areas of Texas, particularly those within 200 miles of the Gulf of Mexico. The goal of this proposal is to generate additional funds for residual windstorm insurance coverage in coastal regions. The bill outlines a framework for the operation of casino gaming, which includes stipulations for a rigorous certification and licensing process for individuals and entities managing or operating casino gaming activities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR142 may include the potential socio-economic impacts of legalizing casino gaming, such as the possibility of increased gambling addiction or adverse effects on local communities. Critics may argue that introducing casino gaming could invite a host of social issues while supporters emphasize the financial necessity for improving windstorm insurance funding in vulnerable coastal areas. Additionally, establishing a new regulatory framework could prompt debates concerning government oversight and public safety standards.

Companion Bills

TX HB3839

Enabled by Relating to the operation of casino gaming in this state by licensed persons in certain areas of this state to provide additional money for residual windstorm insurance coverage in the coastal areas; requiring occupational licenses or certifications; creating criminal offenses and providing other penalties; authorizing fees; imposing a tax.

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 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 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 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 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 SB2556

Relating to the abolition of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association and coverage for windstorm by certain insurers.

TX HB1588

Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment; authorizing a surcharge.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.