Texas HB2996 amends gambling offense definitions and prosecution criteria in the Penal Code.

Texas HB2996 amends the Texas Penal Code to redefine "economic benefit" in gambling offenses as direct winnings from games of skill or luck, excluding other benefits. It also establishes affirmative defenses for gambling prosecutions, including that the gambling occurred in a private place, no one received economic benefits beyond personal winnings, and the risks and chances of winning were equal for all participants.

Texas HB2996 amends gambling offense definitions and prosecution criteria in the Penal Code.

Texas HB2996 amends the Texas Penal Code to redefine "economic benefit" in gambling offenses as direct winnings from games of skill or luck, excluding other benefits. It also establishes affirmative defenses for gambling prosecutions, including that the gambling occurred in a private place, no one received economic benefits beyond personal winnings, and the risks and chances of winning were equal for all participants.