Sports betting in the United States has been undergoing a significant transformation since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018. This decision allowed individual states to legalize and regulate sports betting within their borders. While many states have embraced this opportunity, Texas remains a notable exception. The Lone Star State, known for its conservative stance on gambling, has yet to fully legalize sports betting, though discussions and legislative efforts continue. This article explores the current state of sports betting in Texas, the legislative landscape, economic implications, and potential future developments.
The Legal Status of Sports Betting in Texas
As of 2025, Texas Sports Betting remains illegal in Texas. The state has some of the strictest gambling laws in the country, prohibiting most forms of wagering outside of a few regulated exceptions. Texas only allows limited gambling activities, including:
- The Texas Lottery, which offers various draw games and scratch-off tickets.
- Horse and greyhound racing, with pari-mutuel wagering available at designated racetracks.
- Charitable bingo and raffles, which are strictly regulated and limited to nonprofit organizations.
- Tribal gaming, with a few Native American-operated casinos offering limited Class II gaming options.
Despite these limited gambling opportunities, Texas has resisted the push to legalize full-scale casinos and sports betting. The main obstacles stem from the state’s historical opposition to gambling expansion, conservative political leadership, and concerns over potential social consequences.
Legislative Efforts to Legalize Sports Betting
Efforts to legalize sports betting in Texas have been ongoing for several years but have failed to gain sufficient traction. In 2021, House Bill 2070 was introduced to allow online and retail sports betting under the regulation of the Texas Lottery Commission. However, the bill did not advance beyond committee discussions.
The 2023 legislative session saw renewed efforts, with a coalition of professional sports teams, casino operators, and online sportsbook companies lobbying for legalization. Prominent figures, including Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, have voiced support for sports betting, citing its economic benefits and potential to generate tax revenue.
Despite these efforts, the Texas Legislature, which meets every two years, did not pass a sports betting bill in 2023. The next opportunity for legalization will come in the 2025 session, where proponents hope to build on growing public support.
Arguments for Legalization
Economic Benefits
One of the strongest arguments in favor of legalizing sports betting in Texas is its potential economic impact. Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S. by population, and legal sports betting could generate billions of dollars in revenue. Estimates suggest that a regulated sports betting industry in Texas could produce over $2.5 billion in annual wagers, resulting in significant tax revenue for the state.
Additionally, legal sports betting could create thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly. New employment opportunities would emerge in areas such as sportsbook operations, technology, customer service, and compliance.
Consumer Protection
Another key argument for legalization is consumer protection. Currently, many Texas residents participate in illegal sports betting through offshore websites or unregulated bookies. These options offer no safeguards for bettors, increasing the risk of fraud, problem gambling, and financial losses.
By legalizing and regulating sports betting, Texas could establish consumer protection measures, including responsible gambling programs, age verification requirements, and fair play regulations. This would create a safer environment for bettors while reducing the risks associated with illegal gambling.
Competitive Edge
Texas is surrounded by states that have already legalized sports betting, including Louisiana, Arkansas, and New Mexico. Many Texans cross state lines to place legal bets, taking their money elsewhere instead of contributing to Texas’s economy. By legalizing sports betting, Texas could keep this revenue within state borders and compete with neighboring states.
Arguments Against Legalization
Moral and Social Concerns
Opponents of sports betting in Texas often cite moral and social concerns. Many conservative lawmakers and religious groups argue that gambling is addictive and can lead to financial hardship for individuals and families. They worry that an increase in gambling-related problems, such as debt and mental health issues, could outweigh the economic benefits.
While responsible gambling measures can help mitigate these risks, opponents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of such initiatives.
Impact on Sports Integrity
Some critics argue that legalizing sports betting could threaten the integrity of sports. Although major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB have embraced sports betting partnerships, concerns about match-fixing and corruption persist. Ensuring the integrity of sports competitions would require strict regulatory oversight and monitoring.
Potential for Increased Crime
Another concern is the potential increase in crime associated with gambling. Some fear that legalized sports betting could lead to higher rates of money laundering, fraud, and illegal gambling rings. However, proponents argue that a well-regulated market would actually reduce illegal gambling activity rather than increase it.
The Role of Professional Sports Teams
Professional sports teams in Texas have played a significant role in advocating for sports betting legalization. The Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Texas Rangers have all expressed support for legal sports betting. These teams see sports betting as a way to enhance fan engagement, increase revenue, and strengthen partnerships with sportsbook operators.
Several teams have already entered into sponsorship agreements with sportsbooks, even though sports betting remains illegal in Texas. These partnerships suggest that the industry is preparing for eventual legalization, anticipating changes in state laws.
The Future of Sports Betting in Texas
While sports betting is not yet legal in Texas, there is growing momentum toward legalization. Several factors suggest that sports betting could become a reality in the near future:
- Public Opinion is Shifting
Polls indicate that a majority of Texans support legalizing sports betting. As attitudes toward gambling continue to evolve, political pressure on lawmakers may increase. - Economic Pressure
Texas has one of the largest state economies in the country, but it still faces budgetary challenges. The potential tax revenue from sports betting could help fund public services, infrastructure projects, and education initiatives. - Governor and Legislative Support
While Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick have previously opposed gambling expansion, there are signs that their stance may be softening. If key political figures endorse sports betting, it could pave the way for legislative approval. - Success in Other States
Many states that have legalized sports betting have seen positive economic impacts with minimal negative consequences. The success of sports betting in neighboring states could influence Texas lawmakers to reconsider their position.
Conclusion
Texas remains one of the largest untapped sports betting markets in the United States. Despite strong opposition from conservative lawmakers and interest groups, the push for legalization is gaining momentum. Economic benefits, consumer protection, and competition with neighboring states are key arguments in favor of legalizing sports betting.
As Texas heads into its next legislative session, the debate over sports betting will continue. Whether lawmakers decide to embrace change or maintain the status quo remains to be seen. However, given the growing support from the public and professional sports organizations, it seems likely that Texas will eventually join the wave of states legalizing sports betting. Until then, sports fans in Texas will have to continue relying on offshore sportsbooks or traveling to nearby states to place their bets.
