New Bill Would Allow Up to Ten Casinos in Texas

Republican Charlie Geren has reintroduced a bill that would allow up to ten casinos in Texas. If voters approve it as a constitutional amendment, it will take effect. Geren said that if the public says no, the issue will be fully closed, while approval would allow them to move forward.

Under the proposal, the state legislature could regulate casino games and sports betting at a limited number of locations. Operators would pay license and application fees, and a tax would also be imposed on revenue from casino and sports betting. Texas currently has a state lottery, horse and greyhound racing, and some tribal casinos.

Large operators such as Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands have long shown interest in the Texas market. In March, Texas Sands PAC and Texas Defence PAC, funded by Las Vegas Sands, once again failed to settle the casino debate.

Wynn CEO Craig Billings said the situation has changed completely, describing Texas as a large but still little-noticed market. Sands Chairman and CEO Patrick Dumont said the investment being considered for Texas and the Metroplex would be valuable for both jobs and future tourism. Dumont added that any future step Las Vegas Sands takes will depend on its own location, site and timeline.