The gambling industry told the House State Affairs Committee casinos and sports betting could bring in hundreds of millions in tax revenue.
The Democratic candidate for governor suggested legalizing gambling could provide an opening for property tax relief.
The State of Texas has a constitutional prohibition on most forms of gambling, including commercial casinos.
Texas lawmakers considered sports betting legislation last year, but the proposals did not make it out of committee.
A new political action committee funded by Miriam Adelson donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to Texas candidates.
Casino gambling company Las Vegas Sands Corp. hired 73 lobbyists to advance casino bills during the regular session.
Proposed constitutional amendments to establish four commercial casinos in Texas are currently pending in committees.
