As of now, 38 states and the District of Columbia have legalized sports betting, with 33 states offering online sports betting and 36 providing retail options. However, the two biggest states by population—California and Texas—are notable holdouts when it comes to legalizing sports betting, leaving fans wondering when, or if, they will ever be able to legally wager on their favorite teams.
Together, California and Texas account for more than 20% of the U.S. population, making them incredibly significant markets for sports betting. These states are home to some of the most iconic and valuable sports teams in the country, including the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Cowboys, and Texas Longhorns. With such a rich sports culture and massive fan bases, the demand for legalized sports betting is undeniable.
In terms of revenue, the financial incentive for both states to legalize sports betting is substantial. Estimates suggest that California could generate $3-$4 billion annually, while Texas could see similar figures. This represents a huge opportunity for both states to generate tax revenue and create jobs in a burgeoning industry.
So, the question remains: Will sports fans in California and Texas ever be able to use the best sportsbooks to legally bet on their favorite teams?
California’s Sports Betting Roadblock
California has long been a battleground for sports betting legislation. Several attempts have been made to push for legalized sports wagering, but all have faced significant obstacles. The state’s complex political landscape, competing interests, and the need for a voter referendum have all slowed the process.
One key issue is the debate between tribal casinos and online sportsbooks. California’s tribes, which run a number of casinos, have significant political power and have pushed for retail-only sports betting within their properties. Meanwhile, online sports betting companies, which stand to make the most money, have lobbied for broader legalization that includes online platforms. The state’s diverse and complicated gaming ecosystem makes finding common ground a challenge.
That said, the potential revenue from legalized sports betting is hard to ignore, and with public support for sports betting increasing, California could see movement on this issue sooner rather than later.
Texas: A Stronger Holdout?
Texas presents a different challenge. While its sheer size and sports culture make it a prime candidate for sports betting, the state’s conservative political environment and legislative resistance have kept sports wagering on the backburner. Lawmakers in Texas have historically been hesitant to legalize gambling of any kind, and sports betting has faced an uphill battle from the start.
That being said, the state’s growing budget deficit and pressure from the gaming industry could spark a change. With the recent boom in states like New York and Florida, which have shown just how lucrative legalized sports betting can be, Texas may eventually reconsider its stance. However, it’s still uncertain whether the state’s leadership will embrace sports betting any time soon.
What’s Next?
While the road to legalization in both California and Texas is uncertain, there is clear momentum building in both states. With significant financial incentives, growing public support, and the success of sports betting in other states, it’s only a matter of time before these two major players potentially join the fold.
For now, sports fans in California and Texas will have to continue to wait for their states to pass legislation. But with the pressure mounting and the economic potential clear, it’s likely that the conversation surrounding sports betting in these two states will continue to heat up in the coming years.
