Dallas Cowboys co-owner Charlotte Jones is advocating for the legalization of online sports betting in Texas to protect vulnerable youth from the risks associated with unregulated offshore apps. In an interview with CBS, Jones expressed her support for legalizing sports betting in Texas as a way to eliminate “bad actors” who target young people in the state. She highlighted the concern that unauthorized betting firms are exploiting underage residents in Texas and emphasized the need for a regulated market to safeguard them from harm.
Jones pointed out that illegal operators are specifically targeting Texas schoolkids with their apps, luring them into gambling without proper age verification or safeguards. She emphasized the importance of creating a legal market with restrictions to ensure the safety of young people and prevent them from falling into harmful gambling practices. As a key figure in the Cowboys marketing department, Jones also recognized the potential benefits of a legal sports betting market in Texas, citing Pennsylvania’s tax revenue success as an example of how it could benefit the community.
Despite Jones’ efforts to change public perception on sports betting, the decision ultimately lies with the Senate, particularly Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who has historically opposed gambling proposals. However, there is growing optimism among high-profile lobbyists at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas that Texas may approve a legal gambling market in 2025, with a 50% chance of success. While the focus has primarily been on legalizing casinos, Jones remains hopeful that a sports betting bill will also gain traction, allowing Texans to have a say in how their state should be regulated.
Overall, Jones’ advocacy for legalizing online sports betting in Texas stems from a desire to protect young people from the dangers of unregulated gambling apps and to generate revenue that can benefit the community. By promoting a regulated market with safeguards in place, Jones hopes to create a safer environment for Texans to engage in sports betting while also contributing to the state’s economic growth and development.