Bill > SB1721

This bill transfers the licensing and regulation of charitable bingo from the Texas Lottery Commission to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) effective September 1, 2026. The bill systematically amends numerous sections of the Government and Occupations Codes to replace references to the Texas Lottery Commission with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation or the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation. Key provisions include establishing a transition plan for transferring all bingo-related functions, including existing licenses, rules, ongoing investigations, employee positions, and financial resources. The bill requires the TDLR to maintain the existing regulatory framework for charitable bingo, including maintaining a registry of approved bingo workers, conducting inspections, and collecting prize fees. The transfer is intended to streamline the regulation of charitable bingo by consolidating oversight under a single licensing and regulatory agency. The bill also includes provisions for the Sunset Advisory Commission to review the transfer by December 1, 2028, and requires the new commission to adopt necessary rules by March 1, 2027. The legislation ensures continuity of bingo regulation while changing the administrative oversight of the industry.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1721