Texas Rep. Geren Files Measure to Place Casino Gaming and Sports Betting on 2027 Ballot

Texas Rep. Charlie Geren filed legislation on November 9 that would allow voters to decide the future of casino gaming and sports betting through a constitutional amendment. The proposal is set for the November 2027 ballot if it clears the Legislature. Texas currently allows a state lottery, pari-mutuel horse and greyhound wagering, and limited tribal gaming, but commercial casinos and statewide sports betting remain prohibited.

The bill would empower lawmakers to authorize and regulate these activities at a limited number of locations. It caps casino licenses at 10 facilities, with initial terms of at least 40 years. The Legislature would also establish license fees, taxation on revenue, and approved operating sites.

Geren said the matter belongs at the ballot box. “If they say ‘no,’ then we’re done with it forever,” Geren said. If voters approve, he added: “We can move forward.”

State Sen. Carol Alvarado filed companion legislation in the Senate, though its full text was unavailable at publication.

Political Changes After November Elections

The filing follows leadership shifts from the recent elections. Lieutenant governor-elect Vikki Goodwin has said she supports letting voters decide the issue. “I’m ambivalent on gambling,” she said. “I would be willing to put it up to a vote of Texans.” Goodwin added that gambling spending currently leaves the state for neighboring jurisdictions, costing Texas revenue and economic activity.

Former Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick had opposed expansion. Republicans retain Senate control while Democrats now hold the House. Previous similar proposals have repeatedly failed to reach voters.

Industry Operators Track Developments Closely

Major casino companies maintain interest in Texas. Las Vegas Sands has funded political efforts to support expansion. Wynn Resorts has identified the state as a significant potential market. Wynn CEO Craig Billings said: “The whole landscape changed. Texas is a fascinating market. So it’s kind of a stealth market that is giant.”

As reported by G3 Newswire, Las Vegas Sands Chairman and CEO Patrick Dumont discussed the Dallas-Fort Worth area. “When Las Vegas Sands thinks about Texas and the Metroplex, it’s really about an asset that will be both for business and future tourism. Whatever Las Vegas Sands can do in the future, that will be its own location, its own site and its own timeline.” According to World Casino News, the proposal restarts debate in an altered Capitol environment.

Outlook for Legislative Progress

The measure creates a structured path to a public vote rather than directly legalizing gaming. Its success hinges on building sufficient support across a divided Legislature. Operators and investors will assess early session momentum to gauge whether this attempt advances further than prior stalled efforts.