Texas House Bill HJR55

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

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, HJR55 would significantly change the legal landscape surrounding gaming in Texas, creating a structured framework for regulation and oversight. The establishment of a state gaming commission would provide a central authority to manage and monitor gaming activities across various venues and ensure compliance with state laws. The explicit authorization for Indian tribes to conduct gaming on their lands would not only affirm their sovereign rights but could also stimulate economic development within those communities and for the state as a whole through potential revenue generation from gaming operations.

Summary

HJR55 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the Texas legislature to establish a state gaming commission, which would oversee and regulate various forms of gaming throughout the state. The amendment specifies certain locations where gaming would be permitted, including coastal barrier islands, dredge spoil islands, and municipalities with populations exceeding 675,000. Additionally, it allows federally recognized Indian tribes to conduct gaming activities on their respective tribal lands, aligning state law with federal guidelines regarding Native American gaming rights. The bill encapsulates a significant shift towards formalizing and regulating what has historically been a more fragmented approach to gaming in Texas.

Contention

Debates surrounding HJR55 may arise from varied opinions on the expansion of gaming in Texas. Proponents argue that regulating gaming will help curb illegal gambling activities, enhance state revenues, and bolster tourism through the development of gaming-centered attractions. In contrast, opponents might raise concerns about the social implications of expanded gambling, citing potential problems such as gambling addiction or the moral hazards associated with increased gaming availability. Furthermore, the requirement for the governor to call a special session if the legislature does not enact implementing laws by a specified deadline could create tension around timing and the urgency of passing related legislation.