Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR40

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

The introduction of this constitutional amendment would mark a notable shift in Texas's approach to gaming regulation. By establishing a state gaming commission, the legislature would provide a centralized authority responsible for overseeing various gaming types, which could lead to more consistent and enforceable gaming laws throughout the state. The targeted geographical limitations aim to align regulatory efforts with areas deemed appropriate for gaming, which has historically been a contentious topic in Texas politics.

Summary

HJR40 proposes a significant change to the Texas Constitution by requiring the legislature to establish a state gaming commission dedicated to the regulation of gaming activities. This bill intends to authoritize and regulate specific forms of gaming, including casino gaming in designated locations such as coastal barrier islands and large municipalities. Additionally, the bill affirms the right of federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct gaming on designated tribal lands, addressing a key legal and regulatory gap in the state's approach to gaming on Indian territories.

Contention

One of the primary points of contention surrounding HJR40 revolves around local versus state authority regarding gaming regulations. Opponents are likely to argue that the bill centralizes too much power with the state government, potentially limiting local governments' ability to shape gaming laws according to community needs. Furthermore, there may be resistance from political groups who oppose expanding gaming in Texas on moral or social grounds, fearing an increase in gambling-related issues, while proponents advocate that regulated gaming could provide economic benefits and increase state revenue.

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.