The debate over legalized gambling in Texas has gained renewed momentum as Governor Greg Abbott recently expressed openness to online sports betting. However, despite his stance, the decision ultimately rests with the state legislature, where opposition remains strong. While influential lobbying efforts push for expanded gambling options, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s firm resistance remains a key obstacle. With growing public support and legislative proposals in motion, the fate of gambling expansion in Texas hinges on whether lawmakers will place the measure on the ballot for voter approval.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s recent comments on a podcast signaled a willingness to allow online sports betting in the state. However, Abbott lacks the authority to single-handedly bring the issue to a vote in the Texas Senate.

During his 2021 re-election campaign, Abbott had already indicated a softened stance on legal gambling. More recently, former House Speaker Dade Phelan has also shown increased support for expanding gambling in Texas. However, the primary roadblock remains Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a staunch opponent of gambling expansion. Patrick has stated he will not advance the issue without broad Republican backing in the legislature, and so far, his position has not changed.

Abbott’s remarks come amid an aggressive push by gambling advocates. Las Vegas Sands and Dallas Mavericks majority owner Miriam Adelson have invested Rs. 13 million into lobbying efforts to persuade lawmakers to legalize destination resort casinos.

Additionally, the Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA)—which represents seven professional sports teams—is actively advocating for sports betting legalization. Prominent figures such as Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta and former Texas Governor Rick Perry have also thrown their support behind these efforts.

In November, Democratic Senator Carol Alvarado introduced SJR 16, a constitutional amendment proposing a framework for legalizing casino gambling at designated resorts and permitting sports betting. The bill outlines the formation of a state gaming commission, the establishment of seven casino resorts, and a 15% tax on casino revenue.

Public sentiment appears to align with these proposals. A recent survey by the University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs, reported by the Houston Chronicle, found that 73% of Texans support legalizing destination resort casinos, 60% favor online sports betting, and 56% back the inclusion of sportsbooks in professional sports venues.

While Abbott acknowledges that Texans are already engaging in online sports betting through offshore platforms, the process for legalizing gambling in Texas remains complex.

Since the state legislature convenes only in odd-numbered years, the last attempt to pass a gambling bill stalled in the Senate in 2023. Any expansion of gambling in Texas requires direct voter approval, meaning lawmakers can only decide whether to put the measure on the ballot. With strong public support and mounting pressure from lobbyists, the issue is likely to remain a focal point in Texas politics.