The first is a continuation of a lavishly funded and high-profile effort initiated by the late Sheldon Adelson and his gaming empire Las Vegas Sands to legalize casinos, specifically high-quality “destination resorts” in the state’s largest cities. There are two main camps pushing for expanded gambling in Texas - and right now, they appear to be operating on parallel tracks. But supporters have found promising signs elsewhere, and they have returned to the Capitol with an army of well-connected lobbyists after doling out millions of dollars in campaign contributions during the 2022 election. Dan Patrick, who oversees the Senate, continues to pour cold water on the idea. The push is still an uphill battle, however, as Lt. Gambling legalization advocates in Texas are going all in again this legislative session, confident that they have built more support since their efforts came up far short in 2021. Casino gambling and sports betting are again before the state Legislature in 2023.
