Sports Betting Legislation Laws & Regulations

Two Bills Introduced to Legalize Texas Sports Betting

By Lisa Spencer Senior Editor Updated: 19 February 2025

Lisa Spencer Senior Editor

As a Senior Editor at Betting.US, Lisa Spencer is a valuable member of our expert team. With a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics, Lisa is adept in gambling theory and analyzing odds. She contributes by writing online sportsbook reviews and finding competitive markets to help our readers make an informed choice.

See Full Bio

The Texas Legislature is once again considering legalizing sports betting, a move that could generate tax revenue and economic benefits for the state. House Joint Resolution 134 (HJR 134), filed by State Representative Sam Harless (R-Spring), seeks to amend the Texas Constitution to permit regulated sports wagering. While similar efforts have been made in the past, HJR 134 presents some key differences from previous legislation.

What HJR 134 Proposes

If approved, HJR 134 would modify Section 47, Article III of the Texas Constitution to authorize legislation to legalize and regulate sports betting. However, the bill restricts eligibility for sports betting licenses to specific entities, who could run sports betting operations directly or designate third-party operators. They include:

Professional sports teams that existed in Texas before January 1, 2025
Organizations that have previously hosted professional golf tournaments in the state
Class 1 racetracks that were operational before the same date

Unlike past proposals, HJR 134 does not specify how the state would allocate tax revenue from sports betting. Previous bills, such as HJR 102, aimed to direct a substantial portion of revenue toward property tax relief. Without a clear framework for fund distribution, the allocation of tax revenue would be left to future legislative action.

For HJR 134 to take effect, it must pass through the legislature and gain voter approval in a statewide referendum on November 4, 2025. Even with legislative success, Texans would ultimately decide the fate of legalized sports betting at the ballot box.

Support for Sports Betting Legalization

Proponents of sports betting legalization argue that Texas is losing out on a lucrative economic opportunity. Neighboring states like Louisiana and Arkansas have already implemented legal sports wagering, capturing revenue that might otherwise stay within Texas.

Supporters say a regulated sports betting market could generate millions in tax revenue, create jobs, and boost local economies. Legalization would also safeguard against fraud, ensure fair play, and introduce responsible gambling measures.

Additionally, advocates highlight that legal sports betting could enhance fan interaction and strengthen Texas’ standing as a premier destination for professional sports and entertainment. Some view sports betting as a steppingstone to broader gambling expansion, including casinos in major metropolitan areas.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) recently said on a Texas podcast that he has no problem with legalized sports betting. He also said:

The reality is, I would be shocked if there are not some Texans who do it already. It’s a very common practice and it seems to be part of the entertainment that goes along when you’re watching a football game, especially pro football, or other types of sports and things like that.

Opposition to Legalization

Despite its economic promise, HJR 134 faces opposition from conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups concerned about the social consequences of expanded gambling. Primary arguments against the bill include:

Gambling Addiction: Increased gambling access could lead to higher addiction rates, financial instability, and social harm.
Lack of Revenue Allocation: Unlike past proposals, HJR 134 does not earmark funds for property tax relief or other public services.
Uncertain Economic Impact: Critics argue that legalized sports betting may not generate significant new revenue but rather shift consumer spending from other industries.

How HJR 134 Compares to Previous Efforts

HJR 134 differs from its predecessor, HJR 102, in several ways. One of the most notable differences is in revenue allocation. HJR 102 required that 98% of net state tax revenue from sports betting be dedicated to property tax relief, while HJR includes no such requirement, leaving revenue distribution to legislative discretion.

Another distinction lies in eligibility criteria. HJR 102 permitted NASCAR racetracks to apply for sports betting licenses, whereas HJR 134 excludes these venues, restricting eligibility to professional sports teams, golf organizations, and horse racing tracks.

Additionally, HJR 102 successfully passed the Texas House but failed to advance to the Senate. HJR 134 faces similar challenges, particularly in the Republican-controlled Senate.

Additional Legislative Efforts on Gambling

The push for sports betting is part of a broader discussion on gambling expansion in Texas. Another bill, House Joint Resolution 137 (HJR 137), introduced by Rep. Charlie Geren (R-99), proposes legalizing casino and sports betting. HJR 137 would permit up to ten licensed casinos and establish a framework for tribal-state gaming compacts.

Challenges to Passage

Despite Governor Greg Abbot expressing openness to sports betting, the bill faces resistance from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who has historically opposed gambling expansion. Patrick has stated that he will not bring any gambling bills to a vote unless they have majority Republican support. With the Senate controlled by 20 Republican senators, the fate of sports betting legislation remains uncertain.