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HB 389

Relating to a lottery game played or facilitated for play by telephone or through an Internet or mobile Internet application; creating criminal offenses.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Lacey Hull and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill authorizes state-regulated lottery games via phone and internet while criminalizing unauthorized remote lottery operations.

Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures
#amusements #games #sports(i0034) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #email&electroniccommunications(s0321) #internet(s0130) #lotteries(s0994) #lotterycommission #texas(v0454) #telephones&telephonedirectories(s5657)
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Bill Summary · HB 389

Legislative bill overview

HB 389 would establish a regulated lottery game that can be played via telephone, internet, or mobile applications in Texas. The bill creates new criminal offenses related to unauthorized operation or facilitation of such games, establishing a legal framework for what would otherwise be prohibited gambling activities.

Why is this important

This represents a potential shift in Texas gambling policy by explicitly authorizing a specific form of remote lottery play rather than maintaining blanket prohibitions. The bill could generate state revenue through lottery operations while also clarifying criminal penalties for unlicensed operators attempting to exploit this market.

Potential points of contention

  • Expansion of gambling access: Critics may argue that telephone and mobile lottery access lowers barriers to participation, potentially increasing problem gambling, particularly among vulnerable populations who have easier 24/7 access
  • Revenue vs. social costs: While the state gains lottery revenue, opponents will likely debate whether increased gambling-related harms (addiction, bankruptcy, financial hardship) outweigh fiscal benefits
  • Enforcement challenges: The bill creates new criminal offenses but faces practical questions about how authorities would distinguish illegal operations from legal state-facilitated ones, and enforce across digital platforms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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