Could a Gambling Bill Make it Past Lawmakers and Governor Perry This Session?

By Ryan Poppe, Texas Public Radio News

AUSTIN – With support of business associations, a state senator is hoping for the passage of a constitutional amendment that allows Texas voters to decide on the issue of legalized gambling.

This is the 6th gambling bill Dallas Republican Sen. John Carona has authored in the last decade.

JOHN CARONA:  “SJR 64 puts a constitutional amendment before voters to authorize gaming in Texas.  Specifically this SJR would authorize three competitively bid destination/resort casino licenses in large urban counties: Dallas County, Bexar County and Tarrant County and three casino licenses for the barrier island counties”

Carona says a study of gambling in Texas indicates an estimated 80-percent of voters would support the measure.  He goes on to say that a portion of the money gained from casino gambling would be put to good use.

CARONA:  “This bill dedicates 85% of the tax revenue generated to the property tax relief fund, and 10% of the tax revenue to local governments where gaming facilities are to be located.  The remainder of the funds will be dedicated to support the prosecution of gaming-related criminal offenses and a compulsive gambling program”

Carona says because this bill is a constitutional amendment Governor Rick Perry does not have the power of a veto.  He is not sure if the bill has the votes to pass this session, but hopes the issue is one voters can decide in the coming years.