Everything is bigger in the Lone Star State, except that there is no Texas sports betting. A mess of political crap mixed with special interests and lobbying efforts have the whole issue wrapped up in a convoluted mess. Now, estimates are that betting on sports in the state may not happen for several years.
Texas and California are two potentially huge markets for sports wagers. But recent reports from a California consultancy specializing in gaming says that Texas sports betting is no longer considered a reality before 2025. Their report cites the growing clout of anti-gaming advocates and the those casino legalization lobbying efforts as a major barrier to any legislation. And estimates are it could be stalled until 2027.
Central to the debate is Las Vegas Sands, a major player in the casino industry that has invested heavily over the past decade in efforts to bring casinos to Texas. Despite previous setbacks, the company is spearheading a new push for casino legislation. This renewed effort has provoked strong opposition from anti-gaming groups, who have become more organized and vocal in their resistance.
These groups contend that legalizing casinos would lead to a range of social and economic issues, including gambling addiction, increased crime, and economic destabilization. Their intensified efforts to thwart casino legislation have further complicated the situation for Texas sports betting advocates, who are now navigating a contentious and challenging environment.