Texas Faces Challenges in Legalizing Sports Betting
In Texas, efforts to legalize sports betting have hit a significant roadblock. A group of Texas House Republicans, including 12 freshmen and three returning lawmakers, have announced their opposition to expanding gambling in the state. This opposition specifically targets proposals to legalize casinos and sports betting. The loss of support from these lawmakers results in a net loss of more than a dozen votes for sports betting and 10 votes for casinos. The previous measure to allow online sports betting narrowly passed the Texas House with 101 votes two years ago, just clearing the two-thirds threshold needed to amend the Texas Constitution. The current loss of support jeopardizes the chances of recreating that coalition unless supporters can find additional votes elsewhere.
Missouri Moves Forward with Sports Betting Legalization
Missouri has made significant strides in legalizing sports betting through Amendment 2. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is responsible for setting up regulations and overseeing the industry. The timeline for implementation began in November 2024 when Amendment 2 was approved by voters with a narrow margin. The law took effect in December 2024, and the MGC began the rule-making process. However, emergency rules were rejected, delaying the launch to fall 2025 at the earliest. Throughout 2025, public consultations and stakeholder meetings are being held to develop a regulatory framework. The target date for full operational status of sports betting is December 1, 2025.
Economic Impact and Market Details in Missouri
The proposed tax rate of 10% makes Missouri’s market appealing to operators. Significant financial backing from major sports betting sites like DraftKings and FanDuel has raised $55 million for the legalization campaign. Expected economic benefits include boosts to education funding through tax revenue and job creation in the sports betting industry. Up to 21 online sports betting licenses will be available, with major players like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, ESPN BET, Fanatics, and Caesars Sportsbook expected to enter the market.
Betting Options and Responsible Gaming in Missouri
A variety of betting options, including point spreads, moneylines, and over/under bets, will be available in Missouri. Six major professional sports teams in Missouri can establish retail sports betting locations near their stadiums. The minimum age requirement for bettors is set at 21 years old. Geolocation technology ensures compliance with state regulations, as bets must be placed within Missouri. The MGC will work with operators to implement responsible gaming practices such as self-exclusion programs and betting limits. Resources will be provided for individuals struggling with problem gaming.
Comparison with Surrounding States
Missouri’s progress in legalizing sports betting can be compared to surrounding states. Kansas legalized sports betting in September 2022, allowing retail and online wagering overseen by the Kansas Lottery and Racing & Gaming Commission. Illinois offers mobile and in-person options since June 2019, with nine online sportsbooks available. Iowa was one of the first Midwestern states to legalize sports betting, offering online and retail options since August 2019. Kentucky recently legalized in-person and mobile wagering starting September 2023. Tennessee operates solely online since November 2020. Arkansas allows both in-person and online options since public vote approval in November 2018.
Challenges and Opportunities in Texas
Despite public opinion polls indicating strong support among Texans for legalized sports betting (60%) and destination resort casinos (73%), the legislative battle over gambling is primarily centered in the House. This is due to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick‘s opposition in the Senate, where he claims minimal support among Senate Republicans for expanding gambling. Supporters aim for incremental wins in the House as groundwork for future opportunities when there might be more sympathetic leadership in the Senate. Matt Hirsch from the Texas Destination Resort Alliance emphasized that denying Texans a vote on this matter undermines democratic processes and disregards constituents’ voices.
Lobbying Efforts and Political Dynamics
Sands has been actively lobbying for casino legalization in Austin, with its owner Miriam Adelson spending millions on statehouse elections to increase gambling support in Texas’s lower chamber. Despite some signatories accepting contributions from Adelson-aligned PACs last year, they remain opposed to gambling expansion. The political dynamics in Texas highlight the complexities of legalizing sports betting, as supporters must navigate opposition from key lawmakers and build coalitions to advance their agenda.
In conclusion, the landscape of online sports betting legalization in the USA is evolving, with states like Missouri making significant progress while others like Texas face challenges. The economic potential and public support for sports betting continue to drive efforts for legalization, but political dynamics and opposition remain key hurdles. As more states explore the benefits of legalizing sports betting, the industry is poised for growth, offering new opportunities for economic development and entertainment.