The popularity of sports betting continues to rise across the United States, with more and more fans placing bets on their favorite teams through mobile apps. But Texans are still asking: Are sports betting apps legal in texas? This guide takes a closer look at the current laws, what’s stopping legalization, and what options sports lovers in Texas have in the meantime.
What the Law Says Right Now
Despite the buzz around online sports betting, sports betting apps legal in texas is not something that currently exists. As of now, Texas does not allow legal sports betting in any form—neither online nor in-person. That means Texans cannot legally place wagers through mobile apps or local sportsbooks.
Texas law is particularly strict when it comes to gambling, and sports betting falls under the same legal restrictions that have kept casinos out of the state for decades. Any change to the law would require both legislative action and, most likely, a public vote to amend the state constitution.
Why Legalization Hasn’t Happened Yet
There’s been growing support for legal sports betting, especially as neighboring states like Louisiana and New Mexico have opened their doors to the industry. However, making sports betting apps legal in texas is a complex issue politically and socially.
Several factors continue to block progress:
- Strong opposition from conservative lawmakers and interest groups
- Concerns over problem gambling and its social impact
- Debate over who would regulate the industry and collect taxes
Even though sports betting could bring in hundreds of millions in annual tax revenue, the resistance has so far outweighed the push for legalization.
The Role of Neighboring States
Texans who are eager to bet legally often travel to states where it’s already allowed. For example, in Louisiana, residents and visitors can place bets through licensed sportsbooks and mobile apps, as long as they are physically located in the state.
This trend has added pressure on Texas lawmakers, as the state continues to lose potential tax dollars to its neighbors. While this hasn’t yet resulted in legal changes, it has helped fuel ongoing discussions in the Texas Legislature.
Is It Risky to Use Offshore Betting Apps?
While sports betting apps legal in texas is still off the table, many websites and apps claim to offer services to Texas residents. These platforms are usually offshore operations, and using them comes with serious risks:
- No legal protection if the site refuses to pay your winnings
- Risk of identity theft or financial fraud
- No regulation or oversight of odds, fairness, or payouts
It’s important to remember that placing a bet through an unlicensed or offshore app is not only risky—it may also be illegal under Texas law.
Legal Ways to Enjoy Sports Gaming in Texas
Even though sports betting apps legal in texas hasn’t happened yet, there are still some legal and fun ways to stay involved in the sports action:
- Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): Apps like FanDuel and DraftKings offer fantasy contests where users can compete for real prizes based on athlete performance. These are generally considered legal in Texas.
- Social Betting Apps: Some apps offer “free-to-play” games that simulate sports betting using points or fake currency, offering entertainment without legal risk.
- Travel to Legal States: If you’re near the border, driving to a state with legal mobile betting allows you to bet safely and legally.
What’s Coming in the Future?
The conversation around sports betting apps legal in texas is gaining momentum. Several bills have been introduced in recent legislative sessions, and major sports franchises in the state—like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros—have shown support for legal sports betting.
Still, the future remains uncertain. The next opportunity to revisit the issue in the state legislature will be during the next session, and even then, any law would likely require public support via a ballot vote.
Final Thoughts
So, are sports betting apps legal in texas? Not yet. While the demand is growing and public opinion is slowly shifting, the state still has a long way to go before mobile sports betting becomes a reality.
In the meantime, Texans can enjoy legal alternatives like fantasy sports or travel to states with legal sportsbooks. Stay informed, gamble responsibly, and be prepared—because the future of sports betting in Texas may change sooner than we think.