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RearviewSJR 16Died in Senate committee89th Regular Session (2025)

Voters could have been asked to allow casinos and sports betting

What it does

SJR 16 proposed a change to the Texas Constitution to allow casino gaming at large destination resorts and sports betting. Because it changes the constitution, voters would have had the final say in an election.

What it means for your community

Casinos could have opened in a few large resort sites and Texans could have bet on sports legally. Money from gaming taxes was pitched for education, public safety, and tax relief.

Why it didn't pass

It was referred to the Senate State Affairs Committee on February 3, 2025, and never got a hearing vote.

What to watch next session

Gambling bills return almost every session. Watch whether Senate leaders allow a hearing, since that is where these efforts have stalled.

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Read the full bill on Texas Legislature Online

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