The idea of land-based casinos was popular with former Gov. Ann Richards, but is an issue dead in the water with Gov. George Bush, said Keleigh Wingo, secretary and treasurer for the group. Even if there were state legislation that made it legal, it would be up to cities to decide where casinos would go. She said the group will address the issue more in earnest with the next governor. We're still trying to get this thing passed. Perry and key officials are lining up their priorities for the next legislative session, which begins in January.
Issues topping the list include redistricting, education, transportation and water.
There has been no mention of gambling. I'd be real surprised if casino gambling comes up next session,'' said State Sen. Bill Ratliff, Senate Finance Committee chairman. But State Rep. Ron Wilson, a Houston Democrat who proposed the 1999 bill as well as the measure that led to the Texas Lottery, said he will introduce the gambling legislation again in 2001. He said he believes the legislation eventually will be approved, though probably not next year. It took us 10 years to pass the lottery and it'll probably take that long for casinos.