Summary
- The operator wants to create a destination resort-style casino to Texas.
- Casinos are not yet legal in the state.
- Gambling bills are on the table to allow casinos.
In speaking with lawmakers yesterday, officials connected to Las Vegas Sands announced negotiations have begun to bring a casino resort to Texas. Gambling is not currently offered via commercial casinos in the state, but the brand is hoping to see that changed.
Las Vegas Sands is backing legislation that would allow an expansion of gambling with properties offering casino games, hotels, dining, entertainment, and more.
Gambling Bills Are on the Table
The casino brand is wasting no time preparing for a potential gambling industry in Texas. As negotiations have started to plan for a potential casino, House State Affairs Committee members have been hearing testimony regarding casino gambling bills.
Representative Charlie Green is one such individual that has proposed a measure for an expansion. His bill would allow a limited number of destination-style casino resorts in the state. The bill lists the potential to add two resorts in the Dallas-Forth Worth section of Texas.
During the hearing on House Joint Resolution 155, Las Vegas Sands representatives were on hand to speak to lawmakers. Sands was asked as to what a casino might be worth in the state and the company did not comment, stating they are in active negotiations for licensing.
It is unclear as to who the brand is speaking with on the matter. Either way, casino gaming would be big business in Texas and would bring in tons of new revenues in the state.
Additional Bill Details
With Green’s legislation, it would amend the state’s constitution to allow for the gambling expansion. Along with the two Dallas-Forth Worth venues, the bill calls for two casinos in Houston and one Corpus Christi, McAllen, and San Antonio. The bill covers all the major areas with heavy populations and major tourism.
The measure would also allow a bidding process to take place to license an 8th location, but the area that the license would be allowed is unspecified. Horse and dog race tracks would also be eligible for licensing and this is how Las Vegas Sands would be involved. The brand is most likely talking to a racing company so they can team up to create a casino destination in the state.
Racetracks would be allowed two casino licenses per track. There are ten racetracks in total within the state of Texas, and half of that amount have races scheduled for this year.
If the current proposal is able to make headway it would be a huge win for the casino industry. Texas is a major state that could bring in big bucks from casino visitors.
About the Author
