Charity bingo operators across the state are worried that allowing resort casinos in Texas could hurt their ability to raise money for nonprofit organizations.
Lawmakers are considering whether to hold a referendum on allowing expanded gambling in Texas. David Wittie of ADAPT of Texas, which advocates for disability rights, told lawmakers today that bingo revenues are the lifeblood for 1,400 charities across the state.
“We are concerned about a micro-migration from the bingo halls to the casinos that may not be within their county, but they’d be glad to travel 100 miles versus 400 miles or 300 miles to get to Louisiana or another state,” Wittie said. “So we’re really concerned that it’s going to adversely impact the good work that we’ve been doing for decades.”
State Sen. John Corona, R-Dallas, said he didn’t want to allow expanded gambling in bingo facilities and create mini casinos all over Texas. But one proposal before lawmakers would allow charities a cut of the proceeds of expanded gaming at racetracks and casinos.
