Texas, the second-largest state in the United States both in area and population, has long been a battleground for sports betting legislation. While many states have embraced sports wagering in the wake of the 2018 Supreme Court decision to overturn PASPA (the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act), Texas remains one of the holdouts. This article explores the current status, legal challenges, public Texas sports betting, and the future outlook of sports betting in Texas.
Current Legal Status
As of 2025, sports betting remains illegal in Texas. Neither retail nor online sports betting is permitted, and there are no state-regulated sportsbooks operating within its borders. While daily fantasy sports (DFS) continue to operate in a legal gray area, full-scale sports betting is not yet legalized.
Legislative Efforts
Several attempts have been made in recent years to legalize sports betting in Texas:
- 2021: Representative Dan Huberty introduced House Bill 2070 to legalize sports wagering through professional sports teams and racetracks. The bill gained some traction but ultimately stalled.
- 2023: Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Representative Jeff Leach introduced legislation supported by major sports franchises in Texas, including the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Rockets. While the proposal passed the House, it failed in the Senate.
- 2025 Outlook: With growing bipartisan support and increased pressure from stakeholders, new bills are expected in upcoming sessions, although their success is uncertain.
Challenges to Legalization
Legalizing sports betting in Texas faces multiple hurdles:
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Political Opposition | Some conservative lawmakers oppose gambling on moral or religious grounds. |
| Constitutional Amendment | Legalization would require a voter-approved amendment to the state constitution. |
| Powerful Lobbying Groups | Anti-gambling groups and tribal gaming interests influence legislation. |
| Senate Leadership Resistance | Key Senate figures, such as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have blocked betting bills. |
Public Opinion
Polls suggest that a majority of Texans support the legalization of sports betting, particularly for online platforms. The potential for tax revenue, job creation, and regulation of an already existing black market has convinced many residents that it is time for change.
Key points of public interest:
- Over 60% of Texans are in favor of legalizing sports betting.
- Younger demographics (ages 18–40) show the strongest support.
- Many residents already place bets through offshore websites or travel to neighboring states like Louisiana.
Economic Impact
Legal sports betting could bring substantial financial benefits to the state:
- Tax Revenue: Estimates suggest Texas could generate hundreds of millions in annual tax income from regulated sports betting.
- Job Creation: Sportsbooks, customer support centers, and digital operations could create thousands of new jobs.
- Tourism Boost: Legal betting could increase foot traffic to stadiums and entertainment venues.
Role of Professional Sports Teams
Major sports franchises in Texas have taken a proactive stance in pushing for legalization:
- Teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and San Antonio Spurs have supported legislation that would allow betting at or near their venues.
- Partnerships with betting companies could drive additional revenue and fan engagement.
Comparison with Other States
| State | Sports Betting Legalized | Online Betting Available |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Yes | Yes |
| Louisiana | Yes | Yes |
| California | No | No |
| Florida | Legal, but court disputes | Limited |
| Texas | No | No |
The Future of Sports Betting in Texas
While no definitive timeline exists for legalization, momentum is clearly building. Several factors could influence future developments:
- 2026 Ballot Measures: A public vote could be the most viable route for legalization.
- Changing Leadership: Future elections could bring in more gambling-friendly lawmakers.
- Public Pressure: As sports betting grows in popularity nationwide, pressure on Texas lawmakers is intensifying.
Conclusion
Texas remains a holdout in the national sports betting movement, despite its size and passionate sports culture. Legal, political, and cultural challenges have slowed progress, but public sentiment and economic incentives are gradually shifting the landscape. While sports betting is not yet legal in the Lone Star State, continued advocacy and legislative efforts suggest that change may be on the horizon.