Online Casinos for players from Texas in 2024

Introduction

Like most US states, Texas is popular for its strong stance on several issues, including online gambling. The state is relatively large in landmass, which translates to millions of potential online gamblers. Despite this, Texas has strong opinions about web-based gambling.

Unlike states like Rhode Island, which has fully embraced online casino gaming, Texas remains on the sidelines. Why is that? You’ll get to learn why in just a moment. In this article, you’ll learn everything about the legal gambling landscape in the Lone Star State. This includes the current legal status, permitted forms of gambling, and potential changes in the laws.

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Are Online Casinos Legal in Texas?

According to state laws, real money online casinos are prohibited in Texas. There are no online gambling sites operating legally within TX. The major piece of legislation that governs online gambling is the Texas Penal Code Section 47.02. It clearly defines that almost all gambling-related activities are illegal.

The only exceptions are the state lottery, charitable bingo, greyhound, and horse race betting, which are explicitly permitted by the state.

In recent years, there have been several discussions, including the introduction of House Bill 2070 in 2021. These legislative discussions were aimed at legalizing online sports betting, among other forms of gambling. However, there is no concrete progress toward this.

Governor Greg Abbott in 2021 is on record saying, “We have bigger priorities than expanding gambling in our state.” This is indicative that any efforts to push for the legalization of online gambling will always face great resistance in the state.

At the time of writing, Texas state law does not yet permit sportsbooks, although there’s a growing need to introduce regulated platforms. Legislative discussions have centered around permitting both online and in-person sports betting. For now, however, punters travel to neighboring states, such as Louisiana, to wager on sports legally.

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Types of Online Gambling Legal in Texas

While online casino gaming remains frowned upon, Texas residents can still take part in other forms of gambling. This stems from the state’s rich diversity and culture. The following are the legal forms of gambling that residents can participate in.

1. Greyhound and horse race betting: Both of these forms of gambling are permitted by state laws. They are overseen by the Texas Racing Commission to ensure a fair and safe gambling environment. Simply pick a preferred race through Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) websites or in-person at race tracks and enjoy pari-mutuel betting. One must be above the age of 21 years to participate legally.
2. State lottery: Texas has its own lottery with a wide variety of games, including scratch-offs and major draws like Powerball and Mega Millions. To take part, simply purchase a lottery ticket in person. The best part is that there’s a mobile app to help you locate retailers and check results. This is in the spirit of the ever-growing need to gamble on the move. Only players above the age of 18 years can participate in the Texas lottery.
3. Charitable raffles and bingo: Texas is among the states that let non-profit organizations host raffle and bingo games. However, they must be undertaken under specific regulations to ensure players are not exploited. Note that the state limits activities to charitable causes only. So, no organization can use them for profit-driven gaming. To participate, you must be above the age of 18 years old.

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Online Casino Regulations and Restrictions in Texas

Texan state laws are clear on gambling-related activities within the borders. According to the regulations, residents cannot legally play at online casinos. Failure to comply may attract penalties and/or hefty fines, as stipulated under the Texas Penal Code.

Foreign casinos usually market their services. However, playing on these sites can be risky. Since they are not regulated in the state, you’re not fully covered should you fall victim to rogue gambling platforms. You may find a list of rogue platforms online, but you won’t find them all.

That said, Texans are free to travel to other states, such as New Jersey and Nevada, where online gambling is legal. This is the surest way to play online casino games without any penalties from the state. You only have to be physically present in these states.

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The Future of Online Casino Gaming in TX

While Texas has reservations about online gambling, it may give in, considering the ever-growing need for legalization. Other states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey, have a successful gambling industry, with each state raking in millions of dollars in revenue. This could, in turn, influence future legislative efforts.

Advancements in technology, including blockchain and VR (Virtual Reality), could help shape the future of how Texans gamble. They will also increase pressure on lawmakers to modernize local gambling laws.

Depositing and Withdrawing when in TX

Please see below for a table of the withdrawal/deposit and banking term rankings. Click on the casino name for a detailed look at the withdrawal and deposit score of each casino and how we determined each. More information about deposit and withdrawal terms for US players can be found here.

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Brick & Mortar Casinos Texas

Texas is home to only a handful of in-person gambling establishments. Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino, located in Eagle Pass, is the most popular physical gambling spot. It is operated by the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas. Still, certain Native American Tribes reservations offer physical casino gambling options.

Final Thoughts

Though the Lone Star State is rich in diversity and culture, the local online gambling space is restrictive. The state has remained firm in its stance against legalizing online casinos and sports betting sites. However, the continued pressure on legislators could see the state giving in and permitting regulated gambling platforms. For now, you may have to travel to other states with legal online gambling or rely on risky foreign casinos.

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Written by: Michael Shackleford