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  • Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    Texas Lawmaker Pushes for Constitutional Amendment on Sports Betting

    A Texas lawmaker has taken a significant step toward legalizing sports betting in the state, introducing a proposed constitutional amendment that could put the decision directly in the hands of voters. If approved, Texans will have the chance to determine whether sports wagering should be legalized and regulated under state law.

    A Step Toward Legalized Sports Betting

    State Representative Sam Harless filed House Joint Resolution 134 on Wednesday, officially setting the stage for lawmakers to consider adding the measure to the ballot in the next election cycle. The proposed amendment aims to modify the Texas Constitution, clearing the way for a regulated sports betting framework.

    If the legislature gives it the green light, Texans will vote on the issue on November 4, 2025. The amendment would authorize sports wagering through licensed partnerships with professional sports teams, Class 1 racetracks, and other state-approved operators.

    Texas is one of the few large states that still bans sports betting, but pressure has been mounting from various corners to change that. The growing momentum behind legalization reflects shifting public attitudes, industry interests, and a desire to capitalize on potential tax revenue.

    Strong Support from Texas Sports Industry

    Major professional sports teams across Texas have thrown their weight behind the initiative, making it clear that they see sports betting as an opportunity rather than a threat. The Texas Sports Betting Alliance (TSBA), a coalition that includes teams, leagues, racetracks, and sportsbooks, has come out strongly in favor of Harless’ resolution.

    “We appreciate Rep. Harless introducing this constitutional amendment,” said TSBA spokesperson Karina Kling. “Right now, unregulated sports betting is happening across the state, putting consumers at risk and costing Texas millions in lost tax revenue every year. It’s time to let Texans take control and decide if they want a strong, regulatory framework for sports betting—just like the 39 states that have already moved forward.”

    The argument is straightforward: people in Texas are already betting on sports through unregulated channels, which means the state is missing out on tax revenue that could be used for public services. Legalizing sports betting would provide oversight, consumer protections, and a financial boost for Texas.

    What Texans Think About Sports Betting

    Public opinion appears to favor legalization. A University of Houston poll found that:

    • 60% of Texans support online sports betting.
    • 74% favor allowing destination resort casinos, which would further expand gambling options in the state.

    These numbers suggest that a public vote on the issue could lead to sports betting becoming a reality in Texas. However, political challenges remain, and public opinion alone may not be enough to push the amendment through.

    Political Roadblocks in the Texas Senate

    Despite strong support from voters and sports industry stakeholders, the legislative path for sports betting remains uncertain. The Texas House has historically been more receptive to gambling expansion, but the Texas Senate presents a tougher challenge.

    Governor Greg Abbott has expressed openness to letting voters decide, but Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate’s agenda, has been less enthusiastic. Patrick has repeatedly stated that he won’t bring gambling legislation to the Senate floor unless it has strong backing from Republican lawmakers.

    For sports betting to appear on the 2025 ballot, it must clear the legislature with a two-thirds majority in both chambers—a high bar that will require significant Republican support.

    The Economic Argument for Sports Betting

    While moral and political debates continue, the economic case for legalization is hard to ignore. Texas is already losing out on millions in potential tax revenue as residents turn to illegal betting markets or travel to neighboring states where sports gambling is allowed.

    A report from GeoComply, a company specializing in geolocation security, revealed that:

    • Nearly 1.5 million geolocation checks were recorded in Texas in November 2024.
    • These checks indicate a high level of interest in online sports betting, despite current prohibitions.

    Other states that have embraced sports betting, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, have generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue from the industry. Texas, with its massive population and strong sports culture, could become one of the most lucrative sports betting markets in the country.

    What Happens Next?

    With House Joint Resolution 134 now in play, lawmakers will have to decide whether to let voters weigh in on the issue. The debate will likely intensify in the coming months as supporters and opponents of legalized sports betting make their cases.

    If Texas lawmakers give the go-ahead, the decision will ultimately rest with the people. Given the strong public support and growing industry backing, the odds of sports betting becoming legal in Texas are better than ever—but the final outcome is still uncertain.

  • New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    New York Senate Committee Greenlights Sports Betting Expansion

    A New York Senate committee has unanimously approved a bill that could significantly widen the state’s sports betting options, opening the door for a broader range of wagers, including proposition bets and bets on major sports awards. The move signals a push to further capitalize on the booming betting market, but it also comes amid growing national concerns over sports integrity.

    Expanded Betting Options on the Table

    Senate Bill 2616, spearheaded by Senator Joseph Addabbo, would introduce new betting opportunities for gamblers across the state. If passed, it would allow:

    • In-game and season-long proposition bets
    • Wagers on coin tosses
    • Betting on future team and individual honors, such as the Heisman Trophy and NFL MVP

    Currently, New York prohibits betting on sports awards, placing it alongside states like Colorado, Massachusetts, and Virginia, which have similar restrictions. Addabbo believes this expansion will boost “an already successful” online sports betting market, which has been a massive revenue generator for the state.

    The bill must now pass through the full Senate and the House before landing on Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval.

    National Concerns Over Proposition Bets

    While New York considers expansion, the issue of proposition bets—especially on individual college athletes—has been under increasing scrutiny. NCAA President Charlie Baker has been vocal in his opposition, calling for a nationwide ban.

    “Prop bets continue to threaten the integrity of competition and lead to student-athletes and professional athletes getting harassed,” Baker said in a recent statement.

    Several states, including Louisiana, Ohio, and Maryland, have already banned proposition bets on college athletes in response to concerns about match-fixing and potential threats to players. New York’s bill does not directly address college prop bets, but the broader conversation is likely to influence future discussions.

    New York’s Sports Betting Boom Continues

    Despite these concerns, New York’s sports betting industry is thriving. The state reported an all-time high of $22.6 billion in total wagers in 2024, the largest betting handle in U.S. history. That translated into $2 billion in operator revenue and more than $1 billion in tax revenue for the state.

    The momentum carried into January 2025, which set a new monthly record with $2.5 billion in total handle and $247 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR)—the biggest single-month performance since the state launched online sports betting in 2022.

    With numbers like these, it’s no surprise that lawmakers are eager to expand the industry further.

    Online Casino Push Gains Momentum

    Alongside sports betting expansion, Senator Addabbo is also leading the charge to legalize online casinos in New York through Senate Bill 2614. The bill proposes a regulated online gaming market with key provisions, including:

    • Licensing eligibility for casinos, video lottery terminal (VLT) parlors, sportsbooks, and tribal operators
    • A $2 million license fee for land-based casino operators
    • A $10 million fee for independent contractors running online platforms

    A previous attempt to legalize online casinos failed last year, but Addabbo remains optimistic about this latest effort. Supporters argue that legalizing online casinos could further boost state revenue, though opponents cite regulatory challenges and concerns over problem gambling.

    Next Steps for SB 2616

    The sports betting bill now moves to the full Senate for a vote, followed by consideration in the House. If both chambers approve, it will head to Governor Hochul’s desk for final ratification.

    At the same time, lawmakers are weighing the potential benefits and risks of online casino expansion. The debate over gambling regulations in New York is far from over, and the coming months could shape the future of the industry.

  • Card Player Poker Tour Venetian Main Event Kicks Off With $1 Million Guarantee

    Card Player Poker Tour Venetian Main Event Kicks Off With $1 Million Guarantee

    Las Vegas is set for another high-stakes poker spectacle. The Venetian Poker Room, fresh off launching its state-of-the-art streaming studio, is gearing up for the Card Player Poker Tour (CPPT) Main Event. With a $1,600 buy-in and a guaranteed $1 million prize pool, the tournament kicks off on Feb. 12, drawing top poker talent from across the country.

    New Venetian Poker Studio Elevates the Experience

    The Venetian’s latest addition isn’t just another poker room. It’s a game-changer for live-streamed poker action. Venetian Poker Live, in partnership with PokerGO, now offers a fully dedicated space for broadcasting major poker events, cash games, and vlogging content.

    The debut of the studio featured two high-profile events, both guaranteeing a $1 million prize pool. The first, the Mid-States Poker Tour (MSPT) Venetian Poker Bowl, wrapped up on Feb. 10, attracting 892 entries and generating a $1,271,100 prize pool. In the end, Anthony Scarborough took home the top prize of $152,243.

    Now, all eyes turn to the CPPT Venetian Main Event, which runs from Feb. 12-16. It features three starting flights, beginning at 11:10 AM local time on Feb. 12-14. Survivors from those flights will return on Feb. 15 for Day 2, with the final table set for Feb. 16. The championship moment will be streamed live on a one-hour delay.

    A Growing Tournament Series With Millions Up for Grabs

    The CPPT Main Event is just one highlight of the 2025 Venetian DeepStack Extravaganza I festival. The broader festival, running from Feb. 3-23, boasts a total prize pool of more than $3.2 million across 35 tournaments.

    For players, there’s no shortage of action. The event schedule caters to all bankrolls and playing styles, featuring:

    • Buy-ins ranging from $200 to $1,600
    • Bounty tournaments for those who enjoy knocking out opponents
    • A seniors event, catering to players aged 50 and above
    • A ladies’ tag team event, bringing a unique team dynamic to the tables
    • The increasingly popular Big O bounty event

    This marks the second time a CPPT event has been hosted inside the new Venetian Poker Room. Back in September 2024, Baurzhan Akimov won a $1,100 buy-in CPPT event at the venue, topping a field of 343 entries to claim $63,943.

    Las Vegas’ Largest Poker Room Keeps Raising the Bar

    The Venetian Poker Room’s new location, unveiled in August, is now the largest poker venue on the Strip. Situated on the second floor of the Grand Canal Shoppes at Palazzo, the 14,000 sq. ft. space houses 51 tables and offers players a range of top-tier amenities.

    For those putting in long hours at the tables, the perks are hard to ignore:

    • Complimentary self-serve coffee and soda stations
    • USB and USB-C charging ports at every seat
    • Tableside restaurant ordering for quick meals between hands
    • Free parking for players who log at least three hours of action

    Beyond the creature comforts, players appreciate the quieter environment—far from the constant chime of slot machines. Plus, since smoking is prohibited inside the Grand Canal Shoppes, the air quality is a welcome improvement for many regulars.

    A Legacy of Luxury and Innovation at The Venetian

    The Venetian Resort Las Vegas has been an industry leader since it first opened its doors 25 years ago. Unlike many casinos that focus purely on gambling, The Venetian was built as a comprehensive entertainment experience, combining high-stakes gaming with luxury accommodations, fine dining, and world-class shopping.

    In 2008, the resort expanded with the addition of The Palazzo, making it one of the largest hotel complexes in the world. Now, with the introduction of its cutting-edge poker studio, The Venetian continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for poker enthusiasts.

    With the CPPT Main Event set to crown its champion on Feb. 16, poker fans and players alike will be keeping a close watch. A seven-figure prize pool, a star-studded field, and a live-streamed final table—Las Vegas poker doesn’t get much better than this.

  • Poker Showdown: Nick Schulman’s Big Bluff Ends Kristen Foxen’s Bracelet Run

    Poker Showdown: Nick Schulman’s Big Bluff Ends Kristen Foxen’s Bracelet Run

  • Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

    Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

  • Michael ‘Texas Mike’ Moncek Wins PokerGO Cup Kickoff Event, Sets New Record

    Michael ‘Texas Mike’ Moncek Wins PokerGO Cup Kickoff Event, Sets New Record

  • Google Cracks Down on Gambling Ads with Stricter Compliance Rules

    Google Cracks Down on Gambling Ads with Stricter Compliance Rules

    Google is stepping up its efforts to regulate gambling-related advertising with a major policy overhaul set to take effect on April 14. The new guidelines introduce tighter definitions, country-specific bans, and tougher compliance measures that could permanently suspend violators.

    Clearer Definitions and Tougher Licensing Rules

    Online gambling advertisers will now have to navigate a stricter framework defining what qualifies as gambling content. Any website that directly links to gambling services or facilitates betting in any form will be classified as gambling-promoting content. This includes affiliate and aggregator websites, which will now be limited to providing only informational or comparative content about licensed gambling platforms.

    The new policy places a greater emphasis on valid licensing. Advertisers must notify Google immediately if their gambling licenses are revoked, suspended, or terminated. Failure to do so could lead to account suspension, a move aimed at preventing unlicensed operators from exploiting loopholes.

    Country-Specific Gambling Ad Bans

    Google is moving away from broad regional restrictions and will now explicitly list countries where gambling advertisements are prohibited. Nations such as Bulgaria, China, and Egypt will be on this no-advertising list. This shift provides advertisers with a clearer understanding of where they can legally promote their services and removes ambiguity that previously existed under the “country restrictions” framework.

    Expect a more rigid enforcement approach as Google works to ensure that ads don’t slip through in restricted regions.

    Social Casino Games Face Tightened Regulations

    One of the biggest updates affects social casino games, which often mimic real-money gambling but don’t offer direct cash payouts. These games have operated in a legal gray area, but that’s about to change.

    • Social casino game advertisers must now apply for certification from Google.
    • Advertisers promoting both social casino games and real-money gambling must maintain separate accounts for each category.
    • Real-money gambling ads will no longer be allowed within social casino games or their associated websites.

    Violators of these rules will face Google’s “egregious” classification, which means immediate and permanent account suspension with no chance of reinstatement.

    Mahjong Gambling Now Banned in Asia-Pacific

    Mahjong gambling, a popular activity in many parts of Asia, has now been explicitly prohibited in the Asia-Pacific region. Previously, Google’s policies did not specifically restrict this form of gambling, leaving room for operators to advertise loosely regulated services.

    This update signals Google’s intent to crack down on niche gambling markets that may have previously operated in regulatory gray zones.

    Virtual Currencies and In-Game Items Now Fall Under Gambling Rules

    Casino-style games that use virtual currencies or in-game items with real-world value will now be classified as online gambling under Google’s updated policy. This means that even if a game does not offer direct cash payouts, it can still fall under gambling regulations if players can exchange virtual rewards for real money or other valuable items.

    This shift could impact gaming developers who previously skirted gambling regulations by using alternative currencies instead of direct money transactions.

    A Zero-Tolerance Approach to Violators

    The policy update makes it clear: Google will not tolerate repeat offenders. Severe or repeated violations of the gambling ad policy may result in permanent bans, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on non-compliance.

    Companies involved in gambling-related advertising must now:

    • Ensure their licensing is up to date and immediately report any changes to Google.
    • Obtain proper certification based on the specific gambling category and targeted regions.
    • Adhere to country-specific restrictions to avoid ad disapprovals.
    • Comply with stricter social casino game rules to prevent penalties.

    With these changes, Google is making it clear that gambling advertisers must follow the rules—or risk losing access to one of the world’s largest advertising platforms.

  • GAN and Sega Sammy Extend Merger Deadline to Mid-2025 Amid Regulatory Delays

    GAN and Sega Sammy Extend Merger Deadline to Mid-2025 Amid Regulatory Delays

    The anticipated acquisition of GAN by Sega Sammy is now set for completion in mid-2025 after both companies amended their merger agreement. The extension gives them additional time to navigate regulatory approvals, pushing the deadline to May 31, 2025.

    New Timeline Gives More Breathing Room

    Sega Sammy’s acquisition of GAN was first announced in November 2023, with a deal valued at $107.6 million. The Japanese gaming giant agreed to purchase the online gambling technology provider at $1.97 per share. Originally, both parties aimed to close the transaction before the end of 2024.

    That target has now been revised. On February 7, GAN and Sega Sammy officially amended their agreement, extending the final termination date to May 31, 2025. If regulatory approvals are not secured by then, either party can walk away from the deal.

    One thing is clear—this delay isn’t about hesitation or second thoughts. Instead, it reflects the often-lengthy process of obtaining necessary approvals from gaming regulators.

    Regulatory Approvals Still in Progress

    Mergers in the gaming industry don’t move at lightning speed, and this deal is no exception. While GAN and Sega Sammy have already checked some key regulatory boxes, there’s still work to be done.

    A major milestone was reached in October 2024 when the Nevada Gaming Commission gave its approval. This came after an initial green light from the Nevada Gaming Control Board a month earlier. But Nevada isn’t the only jurisdiction that needs to sign off. Other regulatory bodies are still reviewing the deal, contributing to the timeline extension.

    GAN CEO Seamus McGill acknowledged the extended approval process but emphasized that progress is being made. “The parties continue to respond to regulatory requests. This process takes time, but we are making great progress and working with Sega Sammy in anticipation of a successful closing,” McGill said.

    What Happens After the Deal Closes?

    Once the merger is finalized, GAN will be absorbed into Sega Sammy Creation (SSC), a subsidiary of Sega Sammy Holdings that focuses on gaming technology for land-based casinos.

    This will mark a significant transition for GAN:

    • It will no longer operate as a publicly traded company.
    • Its ordinary shares will be delisted from the Nasdaq Capital Market.
    • It will be deregistered under U.S. securities laws.

    For Sega Sammy, this acquisition is a strategic step in expanding its footprint in the North American gaming market.

    North America Remains a Key Focus

    Sega Sammy has made no secret of its ambition to grow in the U.S. gaming sector. The company sees GAN’s technology and expertise as valuable assets in this expansion strategy.

    At the same time, GAN has faced challenges in the U.S. market. CEO Seamus McGill pointed to several factors, including:

    • The dominance of major players in the B2C online gaming space.
    • A slower-than-expected rollout of regulated online gambling in the U.S.
    • Changes to key customer contracts affecting revenue streams.

    With these hurdles in mind, McGill said the merger with Sega Sammy is a necessary move. “Market share concentration in the U.S. B2C space, a slower-than-expected adoption of regulated online gaming in the U.S., along with changes to key customer contracts, make the near-term operating environment challenging without ample capital resources,” he explained.

    He added that Sega Sammy has the financial strength to support GAN through these challenges, calling the deal a “value-maximizing path” for shareholders.

    Sega Sammy’s Growing Gaming Investments

    The GAN acquisition isn’t happening in isolation. It’s part of a broader investment strategy by Sega Sammy to expand its presence in the gaming sector.

    In July 2024, the company made another major move, acquiring online game developer Stakelogic for $143.2 million. This investment signaled a deeper push into digital gaming, complementing its existing focus on land-based casino technology.

    By acquiring GAN, Sega Sammy is reinforcing its position in the gambling technology market, particularly in North America. The extension to mid-2025 may not be ideal, but it ensures all regulatory hurdles are cleared before the deal is finalized.

  • Hard Rock Tejon Ramps Up Hiring with April Job Fair as Construction Moves Forward

    Hard Rock Tejon Ramps Up Hiring with April Job Fair as Construction Moves Forward

    California’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon is gearing up for a major hiring push, with a job and vendor fair set for April 4-5 at Bakersfield College. As construction progresses, the casino is looking to fill around 1,000 positions, marking a significant step toward its grand opening.

    A Big Hiring Wave for a Big Project

    Hard Rock Tejon isn’t just building a casino—it’s creating a massive entertainment destination. The next phase of construction includes a 400-room hotel, multiple dining options, and a live concert venue. With that kind of expansion, the company needs a large and diverse workforce to bring it all to life.

    Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon, is urging people from all backgrounds to apply. “We hope that any folks that might be interested in working with us will come out and check us out,” he told BakersfieldNow.

    Who They’re Looking For

    The hiring team isn’t just seeking experienced casino workers. In fact, they’re open to all levels of experience. Hard Rock Tejon is emphasizing personal qualities over resumes, seeking:

    • Passionate and energetic individuals
    • Reliable team players
    • People looking for career growth within the organization

    The company is also offering executive roles, which can be found online at gotoworkhappy.com.

    Job Fair Details

    The event will be held at Bakersfield College, making it easy for local job seekers to stop by and apply in person. Attendees will have the chance to meet hiring managers, learn about job openings, and even explore vendor opportunities for those looking to do business with the casino.

    Hard Rock Tejon is expected to be a major economic driver for Kern County, creating not only jobs but also long-term business partnerships. Vendors and suppliers interested in working with the casino are encouraged to attend the fair as well.

    What This Means for Kern County

    Once open, Hard Rock Tejon will be the first resort hotel and casino in Kern County, a major milestone for the region. Beyond entertainment, it’s expected to bring in significant revenue and tourism.

    For job seekers, this is more than just a paycheck—it’s a chance to get in on the ground floor of a major hospitality and entertainment hub. For businesses, it’s an opportunity to partner with a high-profile brand known worldwide.

    The momentum is building, and for those interested in being part of Hard Rock Tejon’s future, April 4-5 could be a key date to mark on the calendar.

  • High 5 Games Ordered to Pay $25 Million in Landmark Social Casino Lawsuit

    High 5 Games Ordered to Pay $25 Million in Landmark Social Casino Lawsuit