Texas Governor Greg Abbott has voiced his support for legalizing online sports betting, adding momentum to a growing push to bring regulated gambling to the state. In an interview on the Texas Take podcast, Abbott stated that he has no objections to sports betting legislation, acknowledging that many Texans already engage in the activity through unregulated platforms.
“I don’t have a problem with online sports betting,” Abbott said. “The reality is that I’d be shocked if there were not some Texans that do it already.”
Abbott’s remarks mark his most direct endorsement of sports betting legalization, an issue that has gained traction through lobbying efforts by the Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA), a coalition representing major professional sports teams in the state. The TSBA, backed by former Texas Governor Rick Perry, has been pushing for legislative approval to establish a regulated sports betting market.
Jeremy Kudon, president of the TSBA, welcomed Abbott’s comments, saying they reflect the views of many Texans. “They want the opportunity to vote on legalizing sports betting and putting in place a strong, regulatory framework that protects consumers and boosts revenue in the state,” Kudon told the Houston Chronicle.
Despite Abbott’s support, significant political obstacles remain. The Texas Constitution prohibits gambling expansion, meaning any change would require a constitutional amendment. That process demands a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the legislature before voters have the final say through a referendum.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who oversees the Texas Senate, has long been a key roadblock to gambling expansion. He has consistently stated that there is little to no support for sports betting among Senate Republicans and has dismissed previous attempts to advance legislation.
“I’ve said repeatedly there is little to no support for expanding gaming from Senate GOP,” Patrick posted on X in May 2023. “I polled members this week. Nothing changed.”
Conservative groups, including the Texas Public Policy Foundation, have also opposed legalization, citing concerns over gambling addiction and social consequences. However, advocates point to potential economic benefits, including increased state revenue and consumer protections against illegal offshore betting markets.
A recent University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs poll found strong public support for gambling expansion in Texas. The survey of 1,200 adults revealed that 73% favor casino resorts, 60% support online sports betting, and 56% back the introduction of sportsbooks in professional sports venues.
The Texas legislature, which meets only in odd-numbered years, has until June 2 to pass any legislation, with a March 14 deadline for new bill introductions. In 2023, a bill legalizing sports betting passed the House but stalled in the Senate.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/02/05/94164-governor-abbott-signals-support-for-online-sports-betting-in-texas-but-legislative-hurdles-remain
