Greg Abbott withholds support for Texas casino constitutional amendment
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said he does not currently support changing the state constitution to allow resort-style casinos, citing concerns about gambling-related harm and sporting events. Casino plans would require a constitutional amendment, with two-thirds support in both legislative chambers before a statewide referendum; Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has also said casino and sports-betting bills lack sufficient Republican support in the Senate.
Abbott’s position adds a significant political obstacle to casino proposals that require constitutional and legislative approval.