The Texas legislature convenes only in odd-numbered years. During its 2023 session, the House passed a proposal for statewide mobile betting, which would be regulated by the state’s professional sports teams and other sports organizations, with a proposed tax rate of 10%. However, a bill that included the establishment of casinos was pulled from consideration by the House without a vote. Additionally, Texas’ Lieutenant Governor, Dan Patrick, indicated at that time that he would not push for a vote on legal wagering.
Patrick tweeted his firm stance, saying, “I’ve consistently stated there’s minimal to zero backing for gaming expansion among the Senate GOP members. I’ve polled them this week. Nothing’s changed. The Senate must prioritize issues that voters expect us to address. We won’t use time on bills lacking strong GOP support. HB1942 will not be referred.”
Patrick’s position has remained unchanged since then. Eilers & Krejcik, an industry research firm, removed Texas from its list of states expected to legalize gambling by 2025. Nonetheless, the Dallas Morning News reported on November 27 that Miriam Adelson has contributed $13.7 million in political donations leading up to the 2025 session, far surpassing the 2022 total of $3.3 million. The legislature is scheduled to meet from January 14 to June 2, 2025. Lawmakers have the option to pre-file bills starting November 11. State Senator Carol Alvarado has already introduced SJR 16, a destination resorts bill that includes provisions for wagering.
### Political Consultant: Texas Gambling Expansion Unlikely
Political consultant Bob Garret, when asked about the likelihood of gambling expansion in 2025, told Texas Spectrum News on November 28, “In the coming legislative session, the odds seem unfavorable. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick continues to assert that there is insufficient support within the Republican caucus in the state Senate to pass expanded gambling… for now, Mrs. Adelson’s efforts might be at a standstill.”
Ultimately, the decision about whether to expand gambling rests with the voters. To pass a constitutional amendment, legislators must secure a two-thirds majority in each chamber. If successful, the issue would be placed before voters in November 2025.
Miriam Adelson, the widow of Las Vegas Sands founder Sheldon Adelson, also holds the position of the company’s largest shareholder. As reported by the Dallas Morning News, she has made contributions to numerous Republicans, including House Speaker Dade Phelan ($1.02 million) and Dan Patrick ($200,000), via two political action committees.
Furthermore, an April survey indicated that 47% of Texans support legalizing sports betting, while 56% favor adding destination resorts. Andy Abboud, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for Las Vegas Sands, commented in a statement to the Morning News, “Texans want to have a say and vote on this issue, and we’re eager to collaborate with the legislature to provide them with that chance this session.”
