The push for legal casino gambling in Texas is heating up once again after a push in 2023 by the Las Vegas Sands. 

Now, the Las Vegas Sands are starting a new effort after re-upping the Texas Destination Resort Alliance. 

The Texas Destination Resort Alliance is a special interest group. According to their website, they’re a ‘coalition of Texans from all walks of life, asking state legislators to allow us the opportunity to vote yes on a statewide constitutional amendment authorizing the development of destination resorts in the state’s major markets.’

The TDRA was used in 2023, and now they’re circulating a petition to legalize casino gameplay. 

Bill Miller, a political consultant, says that not only do the Sands have deep ties in the Lone Star State, but they also have plenty of money. 

“They have a lot of lobbyists and spend a lot of money. They stay in the game and do not take a rest. They are always there, pushing, pushing, and pushing,” Miller says. 

“They are deep pocketed and smart. They are doing what you have to do, trying to convince legislators that it’s a win-win for everyone.”

The Sands’ main selling point for legalizing casino gameplay in the state is that it would assist in funding education. While gambling and marijuana sales throughout the country have brought in additional taxes to assist with education, this is an issue that a lot of Texas doesn’t seem too interested in, especially sports betting. 

“People in Austin, the Conservative Republicans, they know what the base wants and likes. They stay away from topics like that. There is no reason to voice for it when the base is not for it, it could cause problems for them,” Miller also says.

Those in Texas interested in casino play or sports betting can visit nearby Oklahoma and Louisiana. However, it’s unclear if it would, for certain, go toward education, as Miller mentions. 

“It will just end up in the state’s general fund. Will they spend it on education? Maybe not. It might go to roads,’” he says. “The promise is empty.” Miller isn’t confident that casino play or marijuana sales will become legal in the state. 

“Out of the two, I think they are about the same; neither will ever get passed in the State of Texas,” he says.

As time goes on, things could change, but prospective players in Texas will need to look elsewhere for the foreseeable future. 

(Image: Pavel Kapish / Alamy)