Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said he will not let Democrats “run the Senate,” and he wants to see at least 15 to 16 Republicans in support before proceeding.
The gambling industry told the House State Affairs Committee casinos and sports betting could bring in hundreds of millions in tax revenue.
Members of both political parties are pushing a constitutional amendment to license a handful of casinos across the Lone Star State.
Rep. Charlie Geren of Fort Worth filed a resolution to allow Texans to vote on seven commercial casinos and a sports wagering program.
Dr. Miriam Adelson and her company casino gambling titan Las Vegas Sands Corp. contributed millions of dollars to Texas candidates last year.
Sen. Carol Alvarado filed a joint resolution to legalize a limited number of casinos and authorize a sports wagering program in Texas.
Texas is among a minority of states that have not created a legal sports betting market since it became permissible under federal law.
Gov. Greg Abbott’s reelection campaign received a $1 million check from casino gambling mogul Dr. Miriam Adelson.
The Texas Lottery Commission indicated that nearly $2 billion went to the Foundation School Fund and tens of millions to benefit veterans.
Casinos are constitutionally banned in Texas and opponents say legalizing them would have adverse social effects.
Texas Sands PAC has given more than a million dollars to Texas politicians and candidates this year.
The Democratic candidate for governor suggested legalizing gambling could provide an opening for property tax relief.
