Texan legislators are again considering the legalization of sports betting in the 2025 legislative session, and the consideration is being backed by some of the most influential Texan sports stars.
Senate Joint Resolution 16 was filed by Senator Carol Alvarado. The resolution proposes to legalize both sports betting and gambling at casinos and other resorts in Texas. Should it be passed, the Texas Gaming Commission will be established to regulate betting and gambling in the state.
Alvarado has been a big supporter of gambling, having filed several bills to legalize it since 2009. One of her measures was cleared by the Texas House in 2023 but Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick stalled it when it reached the Senate, expressing strong opposition to any type of sports betting or gambling.
However, Alvarado believes the fight is worth it, convinced that sports betting will contribute positively to the state’s economy through taxes while also bringing more tourists, which will boost several sectors.
Patrick’s opposition remains strong, but other Texans are voicing their support for the bypassing of the bill, including Gov. Greg Abbott and former Gov. Rick Perry. In a recent interview on a podcast, Abbot said, “I don’t have a problem with online sports betting. The reality is that I’d be shocked if there were not some Texans that do it already.”
All types of online gambling and sports betting are banned in Texas, with many gamblers having to access reputable offshore or out-of-state real money casinos with the best bonuses to get secure gambling experiences. These casinos allow Texans to enjoy exciting gaming action with great benefits, and also join fellow bettors in other jurisdictions in tournaments and competitions.
Several sports teams in Texas are also lobbying for sports betting and gambling legislation. The Texas Sports Betting Alliance is lobbying for the legislation. This Alliance includes notable sports teams, like the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Astros, and Dallas Cowboys. The Las Vegas Sands is also pushing for change after purchasing a property in Irving earmarked for a casino resort.
There is no doubt that legalizing betting and other types of gambling will boost the state’s coffers and also provide additional funds to Texan sports teams. According to Mark Pannes, owner of Inner Market Media and teaching fellow at the University of Texas, “Bringing a sports book generally into a professional sports venue brings a whole new set of customers, a whole new set of revenue streams that you’re going to be able to bring it.”
Despite these benefits, Alvarado does not have an easy task ahead of her. SJR 16 is likely to enjoy support from the house, but Patrick looks unlikely to change his opposition to sports betting or any other type of gambling. The debate around the bill is likely going to heat up, and Alvarado has stated that she is aware that SJR 16 may not get much traction with the next legislative session, but that she is hopeful about the legalization of sports wagering in Texas in the near future.
