Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson has filed Senate Joint Resolution 82 (SJR 82) to let voters decide on the authorization of destination resorts with regulated casino gaming in Texas. The resolution, filed on March 14, does not itself authorize these resorts but seeks to remove the constitutional ban and set strict parameters around gaming activities.
Senator Johnson said, "Where there is a disconnect between what the Legislature will do and what the voters want, the issue may best be decided directly by voters. I filed SJR 82 to give the voters the right to decide this one. I sincerely hope my colleagues in the Senate feel the same way." He highlighted that polls show over 80% of Texans support having a vote on this matter.
Johnson also introduced SJR 14, aiming to establish a statewide right of initiative and referendum for Texas voters. If approved in November, SJR 82 would enable legislation for regulated casino gaming and sports wagering. The law would define gaming terms, regulate through an agency funded by industry fees and taxes, determine operational locations, limit licenses, and impose application fees and taxes on operators.
Clarifying his stance, Johnson said, "I’m not promoting casino gaming with this resolution. I’m promoting the option to have it...Texans should be able [to] decide whether a constitutional prohibition enacted 150 years ago is relevant today."
The resolution also addresses regulating the Texas Lottery and illegal gaming markets. Johnson noted potential economic benefits: "Should the voters decide to change the constitution...a limited, well-regulated industry...will bring billions of dollars in construction investments...tens of thousands of permanent jobs...and billions of dollars in voluntary tax revenue."
He emphasized financial planning amid legislative commitments during budget surpluses: "Budget surpluses are not perpetual...legislators are obliged to ensure that our revenue options in the future will allow us to meet [our] commitments."
Texans currently spend significant amounts at out-of-state casinos or on illegal local gaming without benefiting Texas economically or ensuring consumer protection. Johnson posed this as a question for voter consideration.
Senator Nathan Johnson was re-elected in 2024 for a third term representing Dallas County's Senate District 16. With eight years of legislative experience, he serves on several key committees including Business and Commerce and Jurisprudence (Vice-Chair).
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