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State Rep. Charlie Geren filed legislation Monday that would let Texas voters decide on casino gambling and sports betting. The Fort Worth Republican’s proposal would allow lawmakers to authorize and regulate both through a constitutional amendment.
If House Joint Resolution 52 passes as filed, the amendment would appear on the November 2027 ballot, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Proposal Sets Casino Licensing Limits
The proposal would cap licensed casino facilities in Texas at 10, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. Initial casino license terms would last at least 40 years, according to the outlet.
The amendment would permit lawmakers to authorize casino gaming and sports wagering at a limited number of locations. It would also require licenses, application fees and taxes on gambling revenue.
Texas already has a state lottery, horse and greyhound racing, and some tribal casinos. Gambling otherwise remains largely illegal in the state.
Legislative Approval Comes Before a Public Vote
KPRC reported that a constitutional amendment requires approval from two-thirds of both legislative chambers. That means at least 100 votes in the Texas House and 21 in the Senate.
Geren’s previous proposal, HJR 137, stalled in the House State Affairs Committee in 2025, KPRC reported. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram described the Senate as an obstacle to gambling expansion in recent years.
Lt. Gov.-elect Vikki Goodwin expressed willingness to send the issue to voters, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported, citing its media partner WFAA.
“I’m ambivalent on gambling. I would be willing to put it up to a vote of Texans,” Goodwin told WFAA, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
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Sources: As reported by Fort Worth Star-Telegram and KPRC.
