Texas lawmakers have introduced joint resolutions for the 2027 legislative session that would ask voters to approve a constitutional change allowing commercial casinos and retail sports betting. House Joint Resolution 52 and Senate Joint Resolution 11 propose authorising the state to regulate and tax both activities, with a maximum of 10 casino licences.
The proposals envisage on-site casino gaming at licensed premises and an initial licence term of at least 40 years. They also contemplate taxes of no more than 15%, although precise fees and tax arrangements would need to be established in legislation. A separate Senate resolution addresses a potential tribal-state gaming compact for the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.
The route remains long
Two-thirds of each legislative chamber would need to approve a resolution before it could go to voters. The proposed referendum date is November 2, 2027. The bills are an early legislative step, not market authorisation. Operators and affiliates should treat Texas as a potential future market rather than an imminent legal launch.