Texans Support Casino and Sports Betting Legalization

A new study from the University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs claims to reveal that Texans overwhelmingly support the legalization of both casino resorts and sports betting. The survey, which interviewed 1,200 individuals with a margin of error of 2.38%, suggests a strong desire for change. However, this rosy picture hides a deeper concern about the potential consequences of such legalization.

While the study paints a picture of widespread approval for both online sports gambling and Las Vegas-style casino resorts, the reality could be more problematic than the data suggests. The survey found that 74% of Texans are in favor of legalizing destination resort casinos, and 60% support the idea of legalizing online sports betting. However, there is a dangerous assumption in these figures: that there won’t be a surge in gambling addiction once these options are made legally available.

The Hobby School’s study overlooks a crucial point—the risk of gambling addiction. Although no current statistics show widespread addiction, history has shown that legalizing gambling inevitably leads to an increase in those affected by it. When states introduce gambling options, they often fail to consider the long-term consequences of addiction, which will likely follow in the wake of the legalization process.

Gov. Greg Abbott has been on record saying he would not oppose a bill that could bring these changes to Texas. But this call for legalization ignores the glaring fact that the gambling industry, once allowed to flourish, can create problems that politicians and regulators are unprepared to handle.

The data from GeoComply further underscores the growing interest in sports betting, with many Texans already seeking illegal gambling options online. The study seems to downplay the potential for illegal activity escalating once these forms of gambling are legalized, and how that could lead to increased financial and social burdens on the community.

The Texas Sports Betting Alliance is already pushing for its own proposal to legalize gambling, but behind the scenes, there should be a focus on addressing the inevitable rise in gambling-related harm. Legalization might appear to satisfy public demand, but without addressing the dangers, Texas may soon face a gambling addiction crisis that could have been easily predicted.

In short, while the public is eager for more gambling options, it’s crucial that lawmakers acknowledge the consequences—something this study fails to address. If the trend continues, gambling addiction is sure to follow, and that is a reality that cannot be ignored.