AUSTIN, Texas – With the Super Bowl just days away, many Texans are preparing to place wagers on the highly anticipated matchup. As discussions around sports betting gain momentum, Governor Greg Abbott has expressed a willingness to let voters decide the fate of legalized sports gambling in the state.
Abbott’s Stance on Sports Betting
In an exclusive interview with FOX4’s Steven Dial, Abbott acknowledged the potential expansion of gaming in Texas but emphasized the need for voter input.
“What I believe about online gaming is that it would expand gaming in the state of Texas,” Abbott said. “It requires a constitutional amendment. What I’m in favor of is giving it to the voters and letting them decide.”
A Shift in Gambling Policy?
Abbott’s comments raise the question of whether his openness to sports betting signals a broader shift in his stance on casino gambling. However, he was quick to clarify his concerns about accessibility and financial consequences for vulnerable Texans.
“I want to make sure that every mom and pop or grandma—someone who doesn’t have a lot of income—can’t just walk into a local convenience store and lose money they need for food, clothing, or other essentials,” Abbott explained. “If we expand gaming, we need to ensure we’re not leading people down a pathway to poverty. Guardrails must be in place, even if voters ultimately decide on the issue.”
Legislative Hurdles
Efforts to legalize gambling in Texas have faced significant challenges. During the last legislative session, bipartisan bills introduced by Representatives Charlie Geren and Jeff Leach sought to legalize casinos and online sports betting. While these measures passed in the House, they ultimately failed in the Senate.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate’s legislative agenda, has previously stated he will not advance gambling bills that lack strong Republican support.
The Path to Legalization
Legalizing gambling in Texas requires a constitutional amendment, meaning it must secure a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers before being placed on the ballot for public approval.
State Senator Carol Alvarado (D-Houston) has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 16, which proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at fostering economic development and job growth through casino gaming. The measure also includes provisions for sports wagering, tax revenue allocation for public programs, and the establishment of a Texas Gaming Commission to oversee the industry.
What’s Driving Abbott’s Shift?
While it remains unclear what has influenced Abbott’s evolving stance on sports betting, one potential factor is the involvement of the Dallas Mavericks’ new ownership group, which has deep ties to the casino industry. The group also made a substantial campaign donation to the governor, adding another layer of speculation to the discussion.
As the debate over sports betting and casino gambling continues, the question remains: Will Texas lawmakers clear the path for voters to decide the future of gaming in the Lone Star State?