Matt Bastock Gambling Expert
Matt is a casino and sports betting expert with over two decades' writing and editing experience. He loves getting into the nitty gritty of how casinos and sportsbooks really operate in order to make solid...
Read Full BioA fresh push to legalize sports betting in Texas has emerged following the filing of a new House Bill which could see Texans voting on the debate by as early as November 2025.
Filed by Representative Sam Harless – House Joint Resolution 134 (HJR 134) – is once again fueling optimism of a possible statewide referendum to allow sports betting in the Lone Star State.
However, unlike previous proposals, HJR 134 appears to focus primarily on retail sports betting, suggesting professional sports teams, PGA Tour events, and Class I racetracks could be eligible for sporting betting licenses.
Nevertheless, the bill’s wording is noticeably vague, stating “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events.”
This glaring omission lacks any reference to online betting and, perhaps more importantly, Texas tax revenue allocations. This omission suggests that these provisions may be included in additional legislative actions.
The pressure is certainly on for lawmakers as the Texas legislature only meets in odd-numbered years, meaning even if voters approve the bill in 2025, implementation will almost inevitably be delayed until 2027.
Should Texas choose to follow in the footsteps of neighboring states Arkansas and Louisiana where online casinos and sports betting are legal, the availability of brick-and-mortar sportsbooks, and in all likelihood, online betting platforms could soon become a reality.
Economic Upsides Face Political Roadblocks
Passionate supporters of legalizing sports betting in Texas argue it would inject millions of dollars in tax revenue and economic benefits which are currently being siphoned into markets outside the state.
Moreover, there is a growing call from advocacy groups for the need for regulation, highlighting that Texans who use offshore or illegal gambling platforms lack all basic forms of consumer protection. Reformers contend a legal framework is necessary to help safeguard users against fraud as well as promote responsible gambling initiatives.
Yet, despite the considerable incentives of legalizing sports betting in Texas, the bill is expected to struggle to overcome the considerable political opposition it faces.
Primary amongst these is Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick – leader of the Texas Senate – who has historically opposed gambling expansions and insists that he will not bring any gambling bill to a vote unless it has sufficient Republican support.
What Happens Next?
This isn’t Texas’ first attempt to legalize sports betting, as a similar 2023 bill that proposed that 98% of the tax revenue generated should be allocated to property tax relief failed to gain any traction in the Senate.
Additionally, given the absence of any specified tax allocation in HJR 134, the bill’s sponsors will face an uphill struggle to secure backing from conservative lawmakers.
However, that being said, should 134 gain legislative approval, citizens will get to vote on it later this year which will please campaigners given that most polls suggest many Texans support legalization – particularly if revenue is directed toward public benefits.
Backers of the bill, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, are keen to highlight the record-breaking revenues achieved in states like New York and Michigan, and the shifting landscape of public opinion, but for now, the fate of legalized sports betting in Texas remains very much uncertain.
