The Push to Legalize Online Sports Gambling in Texas
The movement to legalize online sports gambling in Texas has gained momentum in recent times, with a new report suggesting that it could add billions to the state’s economy. The report, released by Eilers & Krejcik, a boutique research firm specializing in the gaming industry, estimates that the state could see $2.6 billion in additional annual economic activity, along with $24.3 million in tax revenue and the creation of up to 8,000 jobs.
Support from Sports Teams and Politicians
Orlando Sanchez, former Harris County Treasurer and Houston City Council Member, has been a vocal supporter of legalizing online sports gambling in Texas. He believes that it would generate additional tax revenue, which could be used to fund various public projects, and would give Texans the opportunity to choose whether or not to legalize sports betting by putting it on the ballot.
Several major sports teams in the state, including the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, and the Houston Dash, have also expressed their support for legalizing online sports gambling. In a joint statement, Texans owner Cal McNair and Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta said, "The Houston Texans support giving Texans the opportunity to choose for themselves if they want a regulated and taxed sports betting industry in Texas. We think a legal and regulated betting industry is best for our fans and partners and would protect the integrity of competition."
Challenges Ahead
Despite the support for legalizing online sports gambling, there are still significant challenges ahead. Governor Greg Abbott has been a vocal opponent of expanding gambling in Texas, and has blocked attempts by native tribes to expand electronic bingo halls, additional casino construction, and even research trips by Texas officials to study expanded gambling. While Abbott has seemingly softened his stance, he remains wary of gambling fostering economic hardship in the state.
The State of Sports Gambling in Texas
Texas is one of only 11 states in the union that has not legalized sports gambling. The American Gaming Association estimates that sports gambling has contributed to $40.8 billion in tax revenue and created 1.8 million jobs across the country. However, there has also been a marked spike in gambling addiction since 2018, with heads of several problem gambling centers reporting increased hotline calls and more severe problems such as bankruptcies and foreclosures related to sports gambling.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of sports gambling in Texas?
A: Texas is one of only 11 states in the union that has not legalized sports gambling.
Q: What are the potential benefits of legalizing online sports gambling in Texas?
A: Legalizing online sports gambling could generate additional tax revenue, create new jobs, and provide a regulated and taxed industry.
Q: What are the potential risks of legalizing online sports gambling in Texas?
A: There is a risk of increased gambling addiction and a potential negative impact on the state’s economy if not properly regulated.
Q: Who supports legalizing online sports gambling in Texas?
A: Several major sports teams in the state, including the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, and the Houston Dash, as well as former governor Rick Perry, have expressed their support for legalizing online sports gambling in Texas.
