Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4136

Caption

Relating to the operation of casino games at 12 casinos 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.

Impact

The enactment of HB 4136 would have a profound impact on current state laws regarding gambling, as it introduces legal casino gaming within a controlled environment, provided there is community support. With the ability to conduct legalization elections, counties can explore new revenue streams through casino operations. However, the bill also sets specific boundaries, such as limiting the number of operational casinos and the types of games permitted. Implementation will require substantial oversight by state agencies to ensure that criminal activities are deterred and that all gaming remains fair and secure.

Summary

House Bill 4136 is a legislative initiative aimed at regulating casino gaming operations at 12 designated casinos in Texas counties that have opted to approve such activities. The bill establishes a detailed framework for the operation of casino games, mandating that individuals involved in gaming must obtain occupational licenses or certifications. This regulatory structure is overseen by the Texas Lottery Commission, which is authorized to implement rules and ensure compliance, thereby promoting integrity and safety in casino environments. The legislation opens a pathway for counties to conduct local elections to determine whether to legalize casino gaming, reflecting a significant shift in gambling policy within the state.

Contention

While proponents argue that regulated casino gaming can aid in economic development and tourism, critics express concerns over potential social implications, such as increased gambling addiction and related crimes. Opponents may argue that local governments could face pressure from outside interests or industry lobbyists, potentially compromising community values. The requirement for occupational licensing aims to mitigate these risks but could also serve as a regulatory barrier for small businesses or local entrepreneurs looking to participate in the gaming sector. As discussions unfold, the balance between economic benefits and social responsibility will be central to the debate surrounding HB 4136.

Companion Bills

TX HJR119

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the operation of casino games at 12 casinos 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.

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 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 HB2226

Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.

TX HB1942

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.

TX SB715

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative 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 HB1568

Relating to the licensing and regulation of child swim instruction operators; requiring an occupational license; imposing penalties, including administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

TX HB2057

Relating to the licensing and regulation of lactation consultants and the creation of the Lactation Consultant Advisory Board; requiring an occupational license; imposing fees; providing penalties; creating a criminal offense.

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