Texas Pushes Forward With Sports Betting Amendment
The state of Texas has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over online sports betting legalization in the United States. On February 12, 2025, State Representative Sam Harless filed House Joint Resolution (HJR) 134, marking a renewed effort to bring legal sports wagering to the state. Texas has faced many obstacles and bureaucratic delays that have kept it from joining the growing list of states with legal sports betting. The new bill, HJR 134, represents a significant push, with increased support and new proposals aimed at finally legalizing sports betting.
If passed, HJR 134 would allow Texas voters to decide on legalization later in 2025. This move has sparked strong reactions from both supporters and opponents. Supporters are cautiously optimistic, believing that this time the bill may clear the necessary hurdles and open the doors for legal sports wagering. Opponents, however, remain firm in their concerns, citing potential problems such as gambling addiction and economic distress.
Key Provisions and Changes in the Texas Bill
HJR 134 has undergone several changes since its original draft. The bill now focuses mainly on retail sports betting, rather than including online sportsbooks as initially proposed. Notably, the bill does not include provisions regarding tax allocations from gaming revenue or regulations for online sports betting, which has led to serious discussion among lawmakers and the public. The lack of clarity on these issues remains a significant barrier to progress.
The bill proposes that professional sports teams, PGA Tour events, and Class I racetracks existing before January 2025 would be eligible for licenses. However, it does not provide specific details or figures on licensing fees or how tax revenue would be distributed. Texas is home to 13 professional teams, including seven major league teams, three MLS teams, the WNBA’s Dallas Wings, two women’s soccer franchises, four annual PGA Tour events, and four horse racing tracks. All of these could potentially qualify for licenses under the new law.
Licensed operators would be allowed to partner with management service providers once the licenses take effect. Proponents argue that legalizing sports betting would help Texas recapture millions of dollars currently lost to neighboring states and offshore sites, while also generating tax revenue that could fund public services.
Public Opinion and Political Challenges in Texas
Recent polls show that a majority of Texans support legalization, especially if tax revenues are used for public benefit. Governor Greg Abbott has expressed a relatively open stance toward online sports betting, pointing to successful revenue collection in states like New York and Michigan. However, significant barriers remain. Senate leader Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has historically opposed gambling expansion and has pledged not to approve HJR 134 for a public vote without substantial Republican support.
Even if voters approve legalization in November 2025, actual implementation may be delayed until at least 2027 due to the legislative session schedule. The Texas legislature meets only in odd-numbered years, which could slow the process further. Despite these obstacles, there is hope that Texas will eventually join neighboring states like Louisiana and Maryland in legalizing sports betting after a long history of prohibition.
Massachusetts Advances Online Casino and Sports Betting Legislation
While Texas debates its path forward, Massachusetts has made significant progress in expanding its gaming laws. In early 2025, two internet gaming bills, H332 and S235, were introduced and quickly passed through both chambers of the Massachusetts Legislature. These bills, known as the Massachusetts Internet Gaming Act, aim to legalize online casinos and online poker in the state.
The legislation was introduced by State Representative Daniel Cahill and sponsored by State Senator Paul R. Feeney. It amends existing laws on illegal gaming with a comprehensive 41-page amendment. The act would legalize online poker and open the possibility for Massachusetts to join interstate internet gaming agreements like the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), which includes states such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
Sports Betting and Revenue Growth in Massachusetts
Sports betting was legalized in Massachusetts in August 2022, with retail sportsbooks launching in January 2023 and online sportsbooks following in March 2023. Both online and retail sports betting have generated strong tax revenue, with $16.1 million collected in May 2025 alone. This figure represents a 41.6% year-over-year increase in taxable revenue from the online segment, showing the strong growth of the industry.
The new bills propose two categories of licenses, with licensees responsible for their own taxes and fees. Licensing fees will fund an Internet Gaming Control Fund and a Public Health Trust Fund focused on gambling-related health issues. A 20% tax will be imposed on licensed operators’ adjusted gross internet gaming receipts, with revenues distributed through an Internet Gaming Fund.
Responsible Gaming and Consumer Protections
The Massachusetts Internet Gaming Act includes strong responsible gaming measures. The bill mandates programs aimed at player safety, including employee training to recognize signs of gambling addiction. Players must be at least 21 years old to participate on internet gaming platforms. During a June 23 hearing, industry representatives from DraftKings and FanDuel testified in support of the bill, arguing that legalization would boost state tax revenues and eliminate black market activity.
Opposition concerns focus on potential job losses at brick-and-mortar casinos and the risk of increased problem gambling. Advocacy groups and local unions have voiced these worries, while the Attorney General has taken steps to address public health harms by issuing cease-and-desist letters to offshore operators.
Future Outlook for Online Sports Betting in the United States
The push for online sports betting legalization continues to gain momentum across the United States. States like Texas and Massachusetts are at different stages in the process, but both are moving toward expanded legal gaming options. If the current bills pass, Massachusetts could allow up to ten legal online casinos, while Texas could see a public vote on sports betting as soon as November 2025.
As more states consider legalization, the focus remains on balancing economic benefits with consumer protections. Responsible gaming measures, clear tax allocation, and strong regulatory frameworks will be key to the success of these efforts. The coming months will be critical as lawmakers, industry leaders, and the public debate the future of online sports betting and internet gaming in the United States.