Hindered by ethical and religious objections to gambling and a healthy state bank account that gives little impetus to look for additional revenue streams, Senate Joint Resolution 64, which would open Texas to Vegas-style casinos and revitalize the state's horse racing industry, has stalled in a Senate committee and is likely dead for the session.
State Rep. Gary Elkins, R-Houston, whose district includes Sam Houston Race Park, said he would consider supporting the right kind of legislation if it ever does make it to the House.
"We need to see how the bill comes out, what our options are," he said, adding that he wants to make sure it offers equal opportunities to all businesses. "I'm not about picking winners and losers, but if the bill is going to open up to where any business can apply for a casino, then I'd have to seriously look at it."
Some lawmakers say the time is drawing near for voters to decide whether to start keeping at home some of the estimated $2.5 billion Texans spend on gambling every year in neighboring states.
