As legal sports betting spreads across the United States, many Texans are left wondering: does texas allow sports betting? With millions of Americans placing wagers on their favorite teams and games, it’s natural to ask whether Texas residents can legally participate.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Texas’s current stance on sports betting, the reasons behind it, and what the future may hold.
Where Texas Stands on Sports Betting in 2025
To answer the question directly—does texas allow sports betting—no, it doesn’t. Both land-based and online sports betting remain illegal throughout the state. This includes betting on professional sports, college sports, or any other form of regulated sports gambling.
While this may be disappointing for some, it’s important to understand that the state government has taken a strong position against gambling expansion for decades.
Why Isn’t Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
You might be wondering, if so many other states have legalized it, why hasn’t Texas followed suit? There are a few key reasons:
- Political resistance: Gambling is still viewed by many Texas lawmakers as morally questionable or socially damaging.
- Complex legal process: Legalizing sports betting could require an amendment to the Texas Constitution, a process that involves both legislative approval and a public vote.
- Opposition from influential groups: Religious and anti-gambling organizations remain powerful voices in Texas politics.
These factors combined help explain why the answer to does texas allow sports betting remains no—for now.
What About Online Sportsbooks?
Texans often search for online platforms, hoping to find legal ways to bet on sports. But here’s the truth: does texas allow sports betting through online apps or websites? It doesn’t.
Offshore sportsbooks do exist, and some residents access them through VPNs or third-party links, but these platforms are not licensed or protected under U.S. law. This means users risk:
- Losing money with no legal recourse
- Security issues and data breaches
- Unreliable payouts or account freezes
Are There Legal Alternatives Nearby?
If you’re set on placing a legal sports wager, your best bet may be crossing state lines. Some nearby states offer legal and regulated sports betting, including:
- Louisiana – Both retail and online sports betting are legal.
- Arkansas – Offers retail sportsbooks and limited online options.
- New Mexico – Certain tribal casinos provide in-person sports betting.
If you’re willing to travel, these options can give you a safe and legal betting experience.
The Push Toward Legalization in Texas
While the answer to does texas allow sports betting is currently negative, that could change. In recent years, several bills have been introduced in the Texas Legislature seeking to regulate and legalize sports betting.
Supporters argue that:
- The state could earn hundreds of millions in tax revenue
- Legal betting would reduce illegal offshore activity
- Texans deserve the freedom to bet responsibly
Major sports teams and business leaders have also begun supporting the push, adding further momentum to the movement.
Tips for Texans Interested in Sports Betting
If you live in Texas and are interested in sports betting, here are a few things you can do:
- Follow the legislative process – Stay up to date with local news and track proposed bills related to gambling.
- Use legal options while traveling – If you visit a nearby state with legalized sports betting, take advantage of their regulated platforms.
- Avoid risky offshore sites – These platforms are unregulated and could leave you vulnerable to fraud or identity theft.
Conclusion: Will Texas Legalize Sports Betting?
While the current answer to does texas allow sports betting is no, there is growing momentum for change. Lawmakers, professional sports franchises, and even some conservative voices are beginning to reconsider Texas’s strict position on gambling.
Whether or not the laws change soon, it’s clear that public opinion is shifting. Texans who support sports betting should continue to make their voices heard, as the road to legalization will likely depend on persistent pressure from the public and the business community.