Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR102

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the operation of casino gaming in certain state coastal areas to provide additional money for property tax relief; providing for occupational licensing and certification; authorizing fees; limiting certain taxes and fees.

Impact

The proposed amendment significantly alters existing laws regarding gaming in Texas. With the authorization of casino gaming, particularly in locations within 200 miles of the Gulf of Mexico, the state recognizes the potential for economic growth through tourism and job creation. It mandates a comprehensive licensing and certification program which would likely enhance regulatory oversight and accountability among casino operators, thus safeguarding public welfare. This shift could lead to increased scrutiny of gaming practices and ensures that gambling is conducted responsibly and lawfully.

Summary

HJR102 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the operation of casino gaming specifically in designated coastal areas within the state of Texas. This initiative aims to generate additional revenue that would be directed towards property tax relief for residents. By providing a structured framework for casino operations, the bill includes provisions for occupational licensing and the certification of individuals involved in the gaming industry, ensuring that all participants meet certain legal and ethical standards. The bill seeks to formalize and regulate a previously untapped sector within the state's economy.

Contention

Despite the anticipated benefits, HJR102 may face opposition from various stakeholders. Some critics argue that the introduction of casino gaming could lead to societal issues such as gambling addiction and increased crime rates. Additionally, there is concern regarding the adequacy of regulations and whether measures to mitigate negative impacts on local communities will be sufficient. Proponents, however, contend that controlled gaming can provide substantial financial support for property taxes, thereby easing the burden on homeowners and enhancing local infrastructure.

Companion Bills

TX HB2257

Enabled by Relating to the operation of casino gaming in certain state coastal areas to provide additional money for property tax relief; requiring occupational licenses and certifications; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; creating criminal offenses and providing other penalties.

Previously Filed As

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 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 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 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 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 HJR93

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners or similar gaming devices; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4446

Relating to certain licensing and permitting requirements for game rooms; authorizing an occupational permit or license; authorizing a fee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.