Cheryl Bean, a political newcomer in Texas, is preparing for a legislative primary runoff later this month and has consistently voiced her opposition to casino resorts in the state.
In her bid for the Republican nomination for Texas House District 97, Bean recently expressed her stance on gambling to a television news outlet, stating, "I'm not a fan of gambling."
Bean argues that casino jobs often lead to increased union activity and may be taken by illegals in the states, which she claims provides them with a method for American citizenship. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has also voiced his opposition to gambling legislation, asserting that it will not pass while he is in office and controls the state Senate.
Bean dismissed the idea of pursuing casino resort proposals as a waste of taxpayer money, calling it a moot point. She also pointed out that nearby states offer gambling within a two to three-hour drive from most places in Texas, which she finds acceptable.
Bean will compete against John McQueeney in the May 28 Republican primary, with border security being another significant issue in the race. The House seat is currently held by Republican state Rep. Craig Goldman, a contender for Congress.
The Current Gambling Situation
Texas holds a complex relationship with gambling. While traditional brick-and-mortar casinos are largely absent from the state, a closer look shows a diverse gambling landscape that has been, and continues to be, shaped by legal restrictions, tribal compacts, and the fast-growing influence of online platforms.
Currently, Texas prohibits Class III (commercial casino) gambling, as well as online and in-person sports betting at sportsbooks.
Texas law is generally restrictive when it comes to gambling. Commercial casinos, like those seen in the major gambling states of Nevada or New Jersey, are not permitted. It's this absence of large-scale casino resorts that helps to give Texas a unique atmosphere when it comes to gambling.
However, it's important to note that this does not mean gambling is entirely absent from Texas.
In March, for example, Las Vegas Sands submitted a fresh petition aiming to introduce casino gaming to Texas. Numerous lobbyists are actively engaged in this effort, and new legislative proposals are expected in future sessions.
There's also the opportunity to play on offshore or crypto casinos online, which is proving increasingly popular with keen gamblers both across the state of Texas and further afield. The reason behind the boom, says gambling expert Khadija Bilal, is because players "...can enjoy real-money casino gaming in almost all US states. Using no-account casinos offers an even more secure way to access your favorite casino games while taking advantage of legal loopholes.
"It is also important to note that no US players have ever gotten into legal hot water for playing at these offshore sites".
Because registration is not required, players can be certain their privacy is kept intact while playing a host of casino games, on top of looking forward to speedy withdrawals, bigger bonuses, and often 24/7 customer support.
The state's three federally recognized Native American tribes operate casinos on their sovereign lands and provide a (limited) outlet for casino-style gambling. These establishments offer a variety of games, including slot machines, poker, and blackjack, and they attract as many tourists as they do locals. The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel in Eagle Pass is the largest of these tribal casinos. Owned and operated by the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, it boasts a vast gaming floor, a hotel, and several dining options, making it a popular destination for those seeking a casino getaway within the state.
Texas maintains a long-standing tradition of pari-mutuel wagering on horse and dog races. While the number of active race tracks has fluctuated over the years, venues like Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie and Sam Houston Race Park in Houston continue to offer opportunities for bettors to experience live racing and wagering.
The Future of Texas Gambling
The future of gambling in Texas is uncertain. While efforts to expand gambling options, including commercial casinos and sports betting, have been proposed in the state legislature, they have yet to gain significant traction. The ongoing debate reflects the diverse perspectives on gambling within the state, ranging from those who see it as an economic opportunity to those who express concerns about potential social costs.
As technology continues to advance and societal attitudes toward gambling evolve, the landscape of gambling in Texas is highly likely to undergo more and more transformation. Whether through legal changes, technological innovations like anonymous casinos, or the shifting of public opinion, the way Texans engage with gambling may look very different in the years to come.
Conclusion
Like many states, in Texas, gambling is a complex and forever-changing situation. While traditional casinos remain largely absent, tribal casinos, horse and dog racing, and online platforms bring diverse avenues for Texans.
Yet, it's the future of gambling that's perhaps most intriguing - and uncertain. The future of gambling in the state remains somewhat of a mystery. thanks to the ongoing debates from the likes of Cheryl Bean about potential expansion and the legal status of online casinos.
As the Lone Star State weaves its way through these complexities, gambling will continue to be shaped by legal, social, and technological factors, making it a story definitely worth watching.
