Public interest is rising in a hot topic in Texas. The tug-of-war between brick-and-mortar casinos and their online counterparts is under a new spotlight as the new legalization is on the table. The real twist in the story this time is actually in the background, as the prominent rise of online gambling gives a surprisingly strong argument for online casinos in Texas.
Online Play Shifts the Political Calculus
Until 2010, Texans had to travel to neighbouring states or surf to offshore platforms if they wished to play in casinos. There were numerous reasons for this situation, and the debate over change was heated on both sides. This was the logic in 2010, but that year lies far in the past, and the reality today is drastically different. People carry their games around on their phones, and they rarely feel deprived of entertainment. This reality alters how political offices perceive the pressure to approve large resort projects. And fully legalizing online casinos is nothing new or unique.
Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia have all done it. For Connecticut, they saw an inflow of over $37 million in 2024 from such a move. If we take a look at something more recent, New Jersey received over $243 million in 2025 from online casinos in tax revenue. These examples show that it can be done and be profitable for states at the same time. Players are going to find ways to play and indulge in their hobbies online or offline. The emergence of casino sites in Texas is already underway, with such platforms aiming at Texan players being registered in some other US states or by international licensing bodies. So, if registering online casinos in Texas is legalized, the state could generate more revenue from the taxes, as players would play on the in-state platforms.
Mobile Gambling Creates A Space For Avoidance
On the state’s side, things can get a bit complex. State leaders and officials have to listen to business coalitions, local chambers, moral conservatives, and economic development boards. All at once, and the noise can be overwhelming. As the situation grows, the state often wishes to find a middle ground to lower the tensions and to find a compromise. Mobile gaming is redefined today, and all states must adapt. But what can any state do when the situation is as black and white as it is now? Go with the online access, as it offers that desired compromise. The logic runs like this: if residents already play games online, then the state avoids political turmoil by maintaining the status quo.
Some States Move Forward Anyway
A different story unfolds in places that embraced digital gambling. Pennsylvania carved out an equally strong market that now counts as one of the country’s top three in digital gaming income. How much, you ask? Over 1.1$ billion came to the states’ coffers from July 2024 to June 2025 in the form of taxes from the revenue of online casinos.
It’s hard to form a counterargument against such facts. Hard numbers always have a way of breaking through the politics. Once the framework was settled, the market stabilized and provided consistent returns for state budgets.
Players Follow Convenience, Not Legislative Timelines
This is nothing new. Players want convenience as a new currency.. It’s not that hard to grasp, and if a mountain of paperwork and legislation stands in their way, they will simply find an easier way. People play where platforms feel smooth and familiar. They rarely track legislative developments and read through lengthy reports. They just want a reliable experience, here and now. That mindset softens the urgency of legalization campaigns.
Conclusion
Online gambling has a foothold in the US, whether some states accept that or not. States that have already moved forward with digital markets show strong tax results, while others rely on online access as a justification for delay. The divide only grows sharper.