Sands Corp. Renews Push for Casino Legalization in Texas

Las Vegas Sands, a prominent global casino operator, is renewing its campaign to legalize casino gambling in Texas, following a legislative defeat last year. The company is actively engaging with local leaders and stakeholders across the state, aiming to build support ahead of the next legislative session in January. This strategic effort, facilitated through a series of roundtable forums hosted by the Texas Association of Business, underscores Sands’ commitment to a community-focused approach in its advocacy.

Sands has made significant strides in galvanizing regional support, particularly in North Texas. A recent gathering in Tarrant County attracted nearly 50 officials and business representatives from cities like Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas, reflecting a broad interest in the potential economic benefits of legalized casino gambling. This forum is one of many planned across the state, as Sands works to overcome previous obstacles by enhancing its presence and rallying municipal support.

The company's regional expansion efforts are evident in its recent acquisitions, including the Dallas Mavericks and over 100 acres near the former Texas Stadium site. These acquisitions are part of a broader vision to establish a destination casino resort, signaling Sands' long-term investment in the region.

Sands’ strategy combines grassroots outreach with significant political contributions and robust lobbying efforts. Despite a setback in the 2023 legislative session, where a bill supported by Sands and sponsored by State Rep. Charlie Geren (R-Fort Worth) failed in the Senate, there are signs of growing support. Glenn Hamer, president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, noted that the forums demonstrate a shifting landscape that could be more favorable to Sands’ objectives.

 

Legislative Challenges

However, the path to legalizing casino gambling in Texas remains fraught with challenges. Opposition from religious groups and health advocates, concerned about gambling addiction, continues to be a significant hurdle. Additionally, the Texas Republican Party has explicitly opposed any expansion of gambling in its 2024 platform, reflecting the entrenched resistance Sands will need to overcome.

Despite these challenges, Sands' persistence indicates a long-term commitment to changing Texas' gambling laws. The company’s strategic efforts suggest a recognition that legislative success may require a prolonged, multi-session approach, possibly extending beyond the 2025 session.

Sands has highlighted the substantial economic impact that legalized casinos could bring to Texas. According to projections presented by Andy Abboud, Sands’ senior vice president for government relations, high-end casinos could generate a $13 billion economic boost, create 70,000 permanent jobs, and necessitate 185,000 construction jobs. These figures underscore the transformative potential that Sands believes casino gambling could have on the state’s economy.

Local leaders, including Arlington Mayor Jim Ross, have expressed interest in allowing voters to decide on this significant legislative change. The involvement of major entities such as Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin in the discussions further emphasizes the widespread economic interest in legalizing gambling.

 

“Sands’ persistence indicates a long-term commitment to changing Texas' gambling laws, despite significant opposition and legislative challenges.”

 

Looking Ahead

Sands’ push for legalized gambling is anticipated to be a prolonged effort. Chris Wallace, president and CEO of the North Texas Commission, suggested that a successful legislative outcome might require a multi-session strategy, potentially stretching into 2027 or 2029. Additional forums are planned across Texas, including in Odessa and Taylor, with a virtual conference for East Texas also under consideration. These efforts reflect Sands’ comprehensive and sustained campaign to shift public and legislative opinion on casino gambling in Texas.

As the next legislative session approaches, the outcome of Sands' campaign remains uncertain, but the company’s persistent and multifaceted approach signals a determined bid to reshape Texas' gambling landscape.