In 1995, Texas proposed a referendum for the legalization of casino gambling.

However, perhaps due to Texas' extreme conservatism, many Texans opposed the idea. Since then, other states have joined Nevada to allow unlimited gambling in their state. From record economic growth to billions of revenue dollars for state expenditures, these states continue to reap from their bold decision while Texas remains watching from the sidelines. Rather than enjoying the same profits as its fellow states, Texas has found it hard to meet its state budget year after year. Instead of taking the road well-traveled--increasing taxes, Texas should take a page from the success stories of these states and legalize casino gambling as a legitimate way of generating much needed state funds. The experiences of states such as Nevada and Louisiana fully illustrate the positive benefits to the economy. First of all, thousands of jobs would be created, which...