Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB28

Filed

2/20/25

Out of Senate Committee

2/25/25

Voted on by Senate

2/27/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

If enacted, SB28 will impose stricter regulations on how lottery tickets can be purchased, effectively criminalizing actions such as ordering a ticket by phone or through an online service. It distinguishes between different levels of offenses, classifying violations related to selling or facilitating the sale of lottery tickets as misdemeanors depending on the nature of the offense. This legislation represents a tightening of existing gambling laws and will likely lead to increased scrutiny of operations related to lottery ticket sales that leverage modern technology.

Summary

Senate Bill 28 (SB28) proposes significant amendments to the state's regulations regarding lottery games, specifically focusing on prohibiting the play or facilitation of lottery games through telephone and internet applications. The bill lays out new criminal offenses to deter the unauthorized play of lottery games in these digital mediums. By strictly regulating these channels, SB28 aims to safeguard against underage gambling and ensure that lottery operations remain secure and properly run, thereby aligning with state laws governing gambling activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB28 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers who prioritize enhanced regulation to combat potential issues associated with online gambling. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in keeping lottery operations within safe and legal boundaries. However, there may be concerns among critics about the implications of limiting access to lottery games via digital platforms, particularly regarding convenience for users and potential revenue losses for state programs funded by lottery proceeds.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SB28 is whether the restrictions on online and mobile lottery participation may hinder access to lottery opportunities for certain segments of the population. Critics may argue that the bill effectively creates barriers for residents who prefer the convenience of digital transactions. Furthermore, the classifications of criminal offenses may raise debates about the fairness and proportionality of penalties for these new violations, potentially igniting discussions about the broader implications of regulating digital gambling.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 466. State Lottery
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Companion Bills

TX HB389

Identical Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB79

Same As Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1820

Relating to the prohibited play and facilitation of play of a lottery game by telephone or through the Internet.

TX HB1719

Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.