Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB115

Caption

Relating to a report by certain vessel operators on gambling device payout percentages; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

The implications of HB 115 are significant for the regulation of gambling devices within the state. By instituting a structured reporting process, the bill aims to enhance accountability and potentially reduce instances of malfeasance concerning gambling devices. The Texas Lottery Commission is tasked with publishing these reports on its website, thus providing accessible information to municipalities that oversee these operations. This effort aligns with broader regulatory objectives to ensure fairness and integrity within the gambling sector.

Summary

House Bill 115 aims to amend the Occupations Code by introducing a requirement for vessel operators regarding the reporting of gambling device payout percentages. It mandates that operators annually submit a comprehensive report to the Texas Lottery Commission detailing both the programmed and actual payout percentages of gambling devices, as well as the data used to compute these percentages. This enhancement to the law seeks to provide greater transparency in the gambling industry, ensuring that the payout practices of devices on these vessels are monitored and reported accurately.

Contention

However, there may be areas of contention surrounding the enforcement of these new reporting obligations. Concerns could arise regarding the burden placed on vessel operators, especially in relation to the costs associated with compliance and the potential penalties for violations. The bill stipulates civil penalties of up to $1,000 for non-compliance, which may lead to debates about fairness and the feasibility of such requirements for smaller operators. The balance between regulatory oversight and the operational realities of vessel owners will likely be a point of discussion as this bill moves forward.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 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

TX HB1601

Relating to defenses to prosecution of the criminal offenses of gambling, keeping a gambling place, and possession of a gambling device, equipment, or paraphernalia and county regulation of poker clubs; providing civil penalties; authorizing an occupational license; authorizing a fee; creating a criminal offense.