A significant number of lawmakers would try to stop casino legalization in the state
Texas House of Representatives candidate Cheryl Bean recently restated her opposition to developing casino resorts in The Lone Star State. On May 28, she will face John McQueeney in the Republican primary runoff for the Texas House District 97 seat.Â
Bean recently commented to CBS News in Texas that she’s “not a fan of gambling.”Â
One of her concerns about casinos is the union activity that comes with new employment created in the industry and that illegal immigrants could take some of those jobs. “It gives them a pathway to citizenship,” said Bean.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick opposes gambling legislation, saying that it won’t be approved as long as he’s in office. Patrick has also endorsed Bean in the upcoming runoff election.
“It’s a moot point and a waste of taxpayer money to go down that path,” said Bean about casino legislation. Bean is running for the House seat vacated by state Rep. Craig Goldman, who is running for US Congress.
Retail casino gambling and online and in-person sports betting are banned in Texas. However, a bill proposed in the 2023 legislative session would have approved an amendment to the state constitution to build several retail casinos, but it eventually stalled. Sports betting legislation barely survived a House vote but was later killed in the Senate. New gambling legislation also requires a ballot referendum supported by Texas voters.
Many believe it’s only a matter of time before gaming expansion is legalized in Texas. Gaming lobbyists remain active in the state, and new gambling bills will likely be introduced in future legislative sessions.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.
