The Texas House Committee on Licensing and Administrative Procedures has approved the first vote for two sports betting bills in the state. The bills, House Bill 1121 and House Joint Resolution 61, were both introduced by Representative Dan Huberty and seek to legalize sports betting in Texas.

House Bill 1121 would allow sports betting at licensed horse and greyhound tracks, as well as at professional sports venues. The bill would also permit online sports betting through licensed operators. House Joint Resolution 61 would amend the Texas Constitution to allow sports betting in the state.

The approval of the first vote is a significant step forward for sports betting in Texas, which has long been opposed to gambling. However, recent developments in neighboring states such as Louisiana and Oklahoma have put pressure on Texas lawmakers to consider legalizing sports betting in order to keep up with the competition.

Proponents of the bills argue that legalizing sports betting would generate significant revenue for the state, which could be used to fund education and other public services. They also point out that Texans are already participating in illegal sports betting, and that legalizing it would provide a safer and more regulated environment for consumers.

Opponents of the bills argue that legalizing sports betting could lead to an increase in problem gambling and addiction. They also point out that the revenue generated from sports betting may not be as significant as proponents suggest, and that it could come at the expense of other industries such as tourism.

The bills still have a long way to go before they become law. They must first be approved by the full House of Representatives, and then by the Senate. If they are approved by both chambers, they will then need to be signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.

Overall, the approval of the first vote for these sports betting bills is a positive development for proponents of legalized gambling in Texas. While there are still many hurdles to overcome, it is clear that there is growing support for legalizing sports betting in the state. Whether or not it will become a reality remains to be seen, but it is clear that the conversation is shifting towards a more open and accepting attitude towards gambling in Texas.