Texas sports betting advocates eye 2025 legislative session
Texas sports betting advocates see a golden opportunity in the upcoming 2025 legislative session. They’re doubling down on their efforts to legalize wagering, fueled by increasing public backing and the potential for a major economic boost, especially after a previous bill stumbled in the Senate.
Alliance pushes for action on illegal market
The Texas Sports Betting Alliance, representing major sports entities like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros, is urging lawmakers to address the state’s substantial illegal betting market.
The alliance estimates that Texans wager approximately 6 billion annually on unregulated sports bets. They argue that a regulated market could generate over 360 million in annual tax revenue for the state, while also providing better consumer protection.
Senate hurdle remains despite house approval
During the last legislative session, a resolution to allow voters to decide on legalizing sports betting passed in the House but failed to gain traction in the Senate.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick cited a lack of support within the Republican-controlled Senate as the primary reason for its failure. He emphasized that the Senate’s focus is on issues that resonate with GOP voters.
John Scott, spokesperson for the Texas Sports Betting Alliance, remains optimistic about the upcoming session. He suggests that increased pressure from voters could influence the Senate’s stance.
Scott believes that the previous defeat was partly due to inadequate communication between senators and their constituents regarding public interest in sports betting. He frames the issue as a matter of personal choice, asserting that Texans should have the freedom to decide how they spend their money.
Economic benefits highlighted by study
Economic analysis indicates that a regulated sports betting market could significantly benefit the Texas economy. A study by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming projects that legal sports betting could contribute 2.6 billion to the state’s annual economic output and generate an additional 24.3 million in indirect income.
Supporters argue that this revenue could be used to fund essential state services, such as education and infrastructure projects.
The sports world, lobbyists and the public support regulation
Despite resistance from key figures like Lieutenant Governor Patrick, prominent figures in the sports world, including Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Charlotte Jones, are advocating for regulation.
Jones emphasizes that regulated sports betting could enhance fan engagement, provide crucial consumer safeguards, and prevent Texas from losing revenue to neighboring states with established sports betting markets. She stresses the importance of Texas remaining competitive in the evolving landscape.
The push to legalize sports betting is gaining momentum as the 2025 session approaches. Companies like DraftKings and FanDuel have increased their lobbying efforts, signaling growing confidence in a potential policy shift. Public polls indicate rising support for legal sports betting, placing further pressure on lawmakers to reconsider the issue.
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