Efforts to expand legalized gambling in Texas got new life this week. Senator John Carona was permitted to submit after the filing deadline a that would create a Texas Gaming Commission and allow for up to four casino resort destinations in highly populated counties.
Other gaming bills were referred to committee this week, including one that . But some social conservatives say they are ready to fight gaming efforts.
鈥淭here is a moral as well as an economic problem with an expansion of gambling," said Cathie Adams, director of the Texas Eagle Forum. "There is a link between family breakdown, addictions and economic problems.鈥�
"We will fight every effort to expand gambling," Adams said.
The and proposals to allow expanded casino gambling would require approval from voters in a statewide referendum.
"I'm frustrated seeing billions of our hard earned dollars fleeing the state," pro-gaming lobbyist and former state Senator John Montford said . "There is growing, bipartisan support to let Texas voters decide this issue."
