The casino operator has new lobbying efforts to convince lawmakers they need casinos
Las Vegas Sands is intensifying its campaign to garner support for the legalization of gambling and the development of destination resorts in North Texas. This effort is timed to align with the upcoming 2025 legislative session and forms part of a larger strategy to boost lobbying activities and secure favorable legislation for their proposed projects.
Las Vegas Sands, which also owns the Dallas Mavericks, is actively reaching out to influential business and civic leaders throughout North Texas. Andy Abboud, the company’s Senior Vice President (SVP) of Government Relations, has been engaging with officials from key cities such as Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Arlington, Farmers Branch, and Visit Dallas. The recent meeting, coordinated by the North Texas Commission and the Texas Association of Business, aimed to build a supportive coalition for expanding gambling in the region.
At the meeting, Abboud highlighted the economic advantages that legalized gambling and destination resorts could bring. Among the attendees were Arlington Mayor Jim Ross, Irving Mayor Rick Stopfer, and Dallas City Council Member Chad West.
While Council Member West expressed personal reservations about gambling, he recognized its potential economic impact. “I’m personally not a gambler, and I don’t really want to be. But I do think it’s an industry that has an incredible economic impact opportunity. I unequivocally believe Texas will legalize gambling, and because of that, I think we have a fiduciary duty as representatives to be prepared for that,” West commented.
Las Vegas Sands has already demonstrated its commitment to the region by purchasing 108 acres in Irving, close to the site of the former Dallas Cowboys stadium. This acquisition underlines the company’s intention to develop major resorts should gambling be legalized.
In response to the proposed changes, the North Texas Commission is forming an exploratory committee to evaluate the potential impacts of gambling. This committee will include a diverse group of stakeholders, including social service providers, public safety experts, and business leaders. Patrick Brophey, the Commission’s Chief Operating Officer (CPO), emphasized that the committee will be inclusive, welcoming input from all relevant regional stakeholders, including those who oppose gambling.
