80R10665 YDB-D

By: Menendez H.B. No. 3186

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to the authorization and regulation of poker gaming and the duties of the Texas Lottery Commission; providing civil and criminal penalties.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Subtitle A, Title 13, Occupations Code, is amended by adding Chapter 2004 to read as follows: CHAPTER 2004. POKER GAMING SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Sec. 2004.001. SHORT TITLE; APPLICABILITY. (a) This chapter may be cited as the Poker Gaming Act of 2007.

(b) This chapter does not apply to the conduct of bingo, charitable raffles, the state lottery, or video poker.

Sec. 2004.002. PUBLIC POLICY. (a) All poker gaming conducted in this state and authorized by law shall be regulated and licensed under this chapter unless state or federal law specifically provides otherwise.

(b) The legislature finds and declares it to be the public policy of this state that:

(1) poker is a game of skill and not a lottery prohibited by the Texas Constitution;

(2) unregulated poker gaming conducted by unlicensed operators in public establishments is inimical to the public health, safety, welfare, and good order. A person in this state may not offer and has no right to offer the game of poker for profit except as expressly permitted by the laws of this state;

(3) the development of regulated poker gaming in this state will benefit the general welfare of the people of this state by enhancing investment, development, and tourism in this state, resulting in new jobs and additional revenues to this state;

(4) the conduct of regulated poker gaming by licensed operators in authorized establishments will not harm the people of this state;

(5) the regulation of poker gaming in this state is important to ensure that poker gaming:

(A) is conducted honestly and competitively; and

(B) is free from criminal and other corruptive elements;

(6) public confidence and trust can be maintained only by strict regulation of all persons, locations, practices, associations, and activities related to the conduct of poker gaming and the poker gaming service industry;

(7) persons owning any interest in an operator licensed to conduct poker gaming and in distributing materials and specific equipment relating to poker gaming must be licensed and controlled to protect the public health, safety, morals, good order, and general welfare of the people of this state;

(8) certain operators and employees of establishments authorized to conduct poker gaming and certain manufacturers and distributors in the poker gaming service industry must be regulated, licensed, and controlled to accomplish and promote these public policies while protecting the public health, safety, morals, good order, and general welfare of the people of this state; and

(9) it is the intent of this chapter, where possible, to use the resources, goods, labor, and services of the people of this state in the operation of poker gaming-related amenities to the extent allowable by law.

Sec. 2004.003. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:

(1) "Alcoholic beverage" has the meaning assigned by Section 1.04, Alcoholic Beverage Code.

(2) "Badge" means a form of identification issued by the commission to identify a license holder.

(3) "Bet" means an agreement to win or lose chips or tokens, or an electronic facsimile of either, in a game of poker.

(4) "Bonus program" means a local promotion bonus program or a statewide bad beat bonus program.

(5) "Cage manager" means an individual who creates and maintains player accounts, provides cash-in and cash-out of chips or player accounts, and creates and maintains the amount of gross receipts tax due and payable to the comptroller by a licensed operator on each day's gross receipts. The cage manager may be assisted by an electronic method to perform any of these duties.

(6) "Charitable operator" means a person who holds a charitable operator's license issued by the commission to conduct a charitable poker tournament for a licensed nonprofit organization.

(7) "Charitable poker tournament" means a poker tournament conducted by a charitable operator or commercial operator to benefit a licensed nonprofit organization.

(8) "Collection fee" means the amount charged on the communal pot for each poker hand played in accordance with Section 2004.462.

(9) "Commercial operator" means a person who holds a commercial operator's license issued by the commission under Section 2004.103.

(10) "Commission" means the Texas Lottery Commission.

(11) "Communal pot" means the total amount of wagers collectively made during one hand of poker.

(12) "Company" means a corporation, partnership, limited partnership, trust, association, joint stock company, joint venture, limited liability company, or other form of business organization, but does not include a sole proprietorship or natural person.

(13) "Creditor interest" means a right or claim of any character against a person for the payment of money borrowed, whether secured or unsecured, matured or unmatured, liquidated or absolute, or fixed or contingent, and includes an obligation based on the person's profits or receipts.

(14) "Dealer" means an individual who deals cards to players at each poker gaming table on the premises of a licensed operator.

(15) "Director" means the director of poker gaming operations of the commission.

(16) "Electronic poker table" means a poker gaming table with components that provides up to 10 player positions and allows players to play against other players in the same poker game using electronic cards and chips.

(17) "Equity interest" means a proprietary interest, right, or claim in a company that allows the holder either to vote with respect to matters of organizational governance or to participate in the profits and residual assets of the company, including common and preferred stock in a corporation, a general or limited partnership interest in a partnership, a similar interest in any other form of business organization, or a warrant, right, or similar interest convertible into, or to subscribe for, a proprietary right or claim, with or without the payment of additional consideration.

(18) "Executive director" means the executive director of the commission.

(19) "Fidelity bond" means insurance against a licensed operator's financial loss resulting from theft or embezzlement by an employee.

(20) "Gross receipts" means the total amount accumulated from:

(A) the collection fees charged from the communal pot from each poker hand; and

(B) the promotion bonus fees charged from the communal pot from each poker hand played.

(21) "Licensed nonprofit organization" means a nonprofit organization that holds a license issued by the commission authorizing the organization to benefit from charitable poker tournaments conducted on its behalf.

(22) "Licensed operator" means a charitable operator or a commercial operator.

(23) "Manufacturer" means:

(A) a person who assembles from raw materials or subparts a completed piece of poker gaming equipment or supplies for use in poker gaming in this state; or

(B) a person who converts, modifies, adds to, or removes parts from any poker gaming equipment, item, or assembly to further its promotion or sale for or use in poker gaming in this state.

(24) "Net proceeds" means, in relation to the gross receipts from a charitable poker tournament, the amount remaining after deducting the reasonable amounts necessarily and actually expended by a licensed operator to conduct the charitable poker tournament.

(25) "Nonprofit organization" means an unincorporated association, a corporation that is incorporated or holds a certificate of authority under the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act (Article 1396-1.01 et seq., Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes), or a nonprofit corporation formed under the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Law, as described by Section 1.008, Business Organizations Code, that:

(A) does not distribute any of its income to its members, officers, or governing body, other than as reasonable compensation for services; and

(B) has tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3), Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

(26) "Pari-mutuel license holder" means a person licensed to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes).

(27) "Player" means a patron who participates in poker gaming on the premises of a licensed operator.

(28) "Poker" or "poker game" means a card game in which players place a bet based on the highest or lowest ranking hand of cards held or combination of highest and lowest cards held. For purposes of this chapter, the term includes the game known as Texas Hold'em or any variation or combination of Texas Hold'em, but does not include blackjack, hearts, pinochle, rummy, Internet poker, video poker, or Asian card games such as Pai Gow.

(29) "Poker card deck" means a set of 52 cards with 13 values and with each card value represented once in each of four suits: spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs. The term includes actual cards or an electronic facsimile of cards.

(30) "Poker gaming" means the conduct of poker games.

(31) "Poker gaming equipment" means any equipment or mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic contrivance, component, machine, or device, expendable supply, or other paraphernalia used in conjunction with or to facilitate poker gaming, including a computerized system or software for monitoring poker gaming revenue or a device for weighing or counting money. The term includes playing cards, gaming chips or tokens, or a card shuffling device, or an electronic version of any of those items.

(32) "Premises" means the area subject to the direct control of and actual use by a licensed operator to conduct poker gaming. The term includes a location or place.

(33) "Principal manager" means a person who, in accordance with commission rules, holds or exercises managerial, supervisory, or policy-making authority over the management or operation of a poker gaming activity that, in the commission's judgment, warrants employee licensing as a principal manager for the protection of the public interest. The term includes a key executive of a holder of a license under this chapter that is a company and each person controlling the holder that is a company.

(34) "Promotion bonus fee" means the amount charged from the communal pot for bonus programs from each poker hand played in accordance with Section 2004.461.

(35) "Wager" means a bet. [Sections 2004.004-2004.050 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER B. COMMISSION POWERS AND DUTIES

Sec. 2004.051. CONTROL AND SUPERVISION OF POKER GAMING; POKER DIVISION. (a) The commission shall administer this chapter.

(b) The commission has broad authority and shall exercise strict control and close supervision over all poker gaming conducted in this state to ensure that poker gaming is fairly conducted.

(c) The commission shall execute its authority through a poker gaming division established by the commission to administer this chapter.

Sec. 2004.052. DIRECTOR OF POKER GAMING OPERATIONS. (a) The commission shall employ a director of poker gaming operations.

(b) The director of poker gaming operations shall administer the poker gaming division under the direction of the commission.

Sec. 2004.053. OFFICERS AND INVESTIGATORS. The commission may employ officers or investigators the commission considers necessary to administer this chapter.

Sec. 2004.054. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY. The commission shall adopt rules as necessary to enforce and administer this chapter.

Sec. 2004.055. APPROVAL OF POKER GAMING EQUIPMENT. (a) The commission by rule shall provide procedures for the approval of poker gaming equipment for use in poker gaming in this state.

(b) The commission may approve an electronic poker table only if the table is:

(1) certified by an independent gaming equipment testing lab recognized by the commission as meeting the standards prescribed by Section 2004.454;

(2) commercially available; and

(3) in use in other commercial gaming operations.

(c) The holder of a license issued under this chapter may not use, sell, or distribute poker gaming equipment that has not been approved by the commission.

Sec. 2004.056. PUBLIC INFORMATION. (a) The commission shall provide to any person on request a printed copy of this chapter and the rules applicable to the enforcement of this chapter.

(b) The commission may charge a reasonable fee for a copy provided under this section.

Sec. 2004.057. ADVISORY OPINIONS. (a) A person may request from the commission an advisory opinion regarding compliance with this chapter and commission rules.

(b) The commission shall respond to a request under Subsection (a) not later than the 60th day after the date a request is received, unless the commission determines that the request does not contain sufficient facts to provide an answer on which the requestor may rely. In that event, the commission shall request additional information from the requestor not later than the 10th business day after the date the request is received. If the commission requests additional information, the commission shall respond to the request not later than the 60th day after the date additional information is received pursuant to the request for additional information.

(c) A person who requests an advisory opinion under Subsection (a) may act in reliance on the opinion in the conduct of any activity under any license issued under this chapter if the conduct is substantially consistent with the opinion and the facts stated in the request.

(d) An advisory opinion issued under this section is not a rule under Subchapter B, Chapter 2001, Government Code, and the rulemaking requirements of that subchapter do not apply to a request for an advisory opinion or any advisory opinion issued by the commission.

(e) Nothing in this section precludes the commission from requesting an attorney general's opinion under Section 402.042, Government Code. In the event the commission requests an attorney general's opinion on a matter that is the subject of an advisory opinion request under this section, the deadlines established under Subsection (b) are tolled until the 30th day following the date of issuance of the attorney general's opinion. [Sections 2004.058-2004.100 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER C. LICENSE TO CONDUCT POKER GAMING

Sec. 2004.101. OPERATOR'S LICENSE. (a) A person may not conduct poker gaming in the state unless the person holds a charitable operator's license or a commercial operator's license issued by the commission. Poker gaming conducted by a commercial operator, including a charitable poker tournament conducted by the operator to benefit a licensed nonprofit organization, may be conducted only on premises operating in accordance with the operator's license. Poker gaming conducted by a charitable operator may be conducted only at a location specified in a permit authorizing the conduct of a charitable poker tournament.

(b) Subsection (a) does not prohibit a person from playing a poker game authorized by other state law.

(c) A person may not own an equity interest in a location in this state on which poker gaming is conducted by a commercial operator and for which a commercial operator's license is not in effect.

(d) A separate commercial operator's license must be obtained for each location at which poker gaming is conducted by a commercial operator.

(e) Except as otherwise provided by this chapter or commission rule, a commercial operator may not operate more than four poker gaming tables at a single location licensed by the commission. The commission by rule shall determine the number of poker tables a commercial operator that is a pari-mutuel license holder may operate.

(f) A separate permit must be obtained for each charitable poker tournament conducted by a licensed operator.

Sec. 2004.102. COMMERCIAL OPERATOR'S LICENSE APPLICATION. (a) In accordance with commission rules, an applicant for a commercial operator's license shall file with the commission an application that contains the information identified in Subsections (b) and (c), and any additional information the commission requires to determine the suitability and eligibility of the applicant.

(b) The application must include:

(1) the name and address of the applicant;

(2) the names and addresses of the officers of a company applicant;

(3) the name and address of the person that owns the premises where the applicant intends to conduct poker gaming under the license sought;

(4) the address of the premises where the applicant intends to conduct poker gaming under the license sought;

(5) the name and address of the lessor of the building in which the premises are located, if the applicant leases or will lease the premises at which the applicant intends to conduct poker gaming;

(6) for a pari-mutuel license holder applicant, the number of poker tables requested for the holder's racetrack, including the number of tables that are electronic poker tables; and

(7) a financial statement certified by a certified public accountant demonstrating that the applicant holds gross capital assets, including land and buildings, of at least $1 million.

(c) An applicant must attach to the application a copy of:

(1) each license or permit the applicant holds issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission authorizing the applicant to serve alcoholic beverages on the premises; or

(2) the person's pari-mutuel license.

Sec. 2004.103. MANDATORY ISSUANCE OF COMMERCIAL OPERATOR'S LICENSE. (a) The commission shall issue a commercial operator's license to an applicant that:

(1) holds:

(A) an alcoholic beverage license or permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission authorizing the applicant to serve alcoholic beverages on the premises; or

(B) a pari-mutuel license issued by the Texas Racing Commission authorizing the applicant to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race;

(2) files the application in accordance with this chapter;

(3) signs the application;

(4) pays the required application fee; and

(5) meets any additional requirements prescribed by the commission.

(b) The commission shall revoke a commercial operator's license if the operator's alcoholic beverage license or permit or pari-mutuel license, as applicable, expires or is revoked. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission shall notify the commission of any expiration or revocation of an alcoholic beverage license or permit held by a licensed operator. The Texas Racing Commission shall notify the commission of any expiration or revocation of a pari-mutuel license held by a licensed operator.

(c) If video surveillance is required under Section 2004.468, the commission may not issue a commercial operator's license to an applicant unless the applicant provides the video surveillance equipment required by that section.

(d) The commission may adopt rules providing for a person's continued suitability to hold a commercial operator's license.

(e) The opportunity to hold a commercial operator's license is a revocable privilege and not a right or property under the United States Constitution or the Texas Constitution. An applicant for or holder of a commercial operator's license does not have a vested interest or right in a license granted under this chapter.

Sec. 2004.104. CHARITABLE OPERATOR'S LICENSE. (a) In accordance with commission rules, an applicant for a charitable operator's license shall file with the commission an application that contains the information identified in Subsection (b) and any additional information the commission requires to determine the suitability and eligibility of the applicant.

(b) The application must include:

(1) the name and address of the applicant;

(2) the names and addresses of the officers of an applicant;

(3) the name and address of the person that owns the premises where the applicant intends to conduct charitable poker gaming under the license sought;

(4) the address of the premises where the applicant intends to conduct charitable poker gaming under the license sought; and

(5) the name and address of the lessor of the building in which the premises are located, if the applicant leases or will lease the premises at which the applicant intends to conduct charitable poker gaming.

Sec. 2004.105. DETERMINATION OF SUITABILITY TO HOLD CHARITABLE OPERATOR'S LICENSE. (a) The commission shall determine the suitability of an applicant for or holder of a charitable operator's license based on suitability criteria prescribed by the commission. The commission shall adopt the rules and standards necessary to ensure that an applicant for a charitable operator's license or a charitable operator uses the revenue from a charitable poker tournament for bona fide charitable purposes.

(b) The burden of proving suitability to receive or hold a charitable operator's license is on the applicant or license holder.

(c) The commission shall issue a charitable operator's license to an eligible applicant if the commission determines that the applicant is suitable under the commission's criteria.

(d) The commission may adopt rules providing for a person's continued suitability to hold a charitable operator's license and providing for the imposition of sanctions and penalties against a person who does not comply with this chapter or rules adopted under this chapter.

(e) The opportunity to hold a charitable operator's license is a revocable privilege and not a right or property under the United States Constitution or the Texas Constitution. An applicant for or holder of a charitable operator's license does not have a vested interest or right in a license granted under this chapter.

Sec. 2004.106. NONTRANSFERABILITY. A commercial operator's license applies only to the specific premises location identified in the license and is not transferable to another person or location.

Sec. 2004.107. REGISTRATION OF INTEREST IN OPERATOR. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person who directly or indirectly owns an equity interest or creditor interest in an applicant for or holder of a commercial operator's license shall register and qualify with the commission under commission rules and shall provide information the commission finds necessary to determine the suitability and eligibility of the person to retain the interest.

(b) The following persons are not required to register or qualify under this section:

(1) an employee of a licensed operator who is required to apply for an employee's license under Subchapter D;

(2) an institutional investor; or

(3) any other group or class of persons that the commission by rule exempts from registration or qualification.

(c) The commission shall adopt rules to implement this section, including rules establishing procedures for registration application, qualification, and renewal. A registration filed under this section must be accompanied by the required application fee. [Sections 2004.108-2004.130 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER C-1. NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION LICENSE; CHARITABLE POKER TOURNAMENT PERMIT

Sec. 2004.131. LICENSE REQUIRED. (a) A licensed operator may not conduct a charitable poker tournament to benefit a nonprofit organization unless the organization holds a license issued under this subchapter.

(b) A licensed operator shall ensure that each nonprofit organization receiving any portion of the net proceeds of a charitable poker tournament conducted by the operator holds a license issued by the commission under this subchapter.

Sec. 2004.132. LICENSE APPLICATION. (a) An applicant for a nonprofit organization license must:

(1) submit an application to the commission on the form prescribed by the commission and in accordance with commission rules;

(2) present sufficient facts relating to the applicant's incorporation and organization to enable the commission to determine whether the applicant may be licensed under this subchapter; and

(3) submit the required application fee.

(b) An applicant for a nonprofit organization license shall:

(1) sign the application; and

(2) attest under penalties of perjury that the information contained in the application is true, correct, and complete.

(c) A copy of an Internal Revenue Service letter that approves an applicant's exemption from taxation under Section 501(c)(3), Internal Revenue Code of 1986, is adequate evidence of the person's tax-exempt status. A letter of good standing from a parent organization that holds an exemption from taxation under Section 501(c)(3), Internal Revenue Code of 1986, for both the parent organization and its affiliate is adequate evidence of the affiliate organization's tax-exempt status.

(d) Not later than the 30th day after the date the commission grants an application for a nonprofit organization license, the commission shall issue the license to the applicant.

Sec. 2004.133. DETERMINATION OF SUITABILITY OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION LICENSE APPLICANT OR HOLDER. (a) The commission shall determine the suitability of an applicant for or holder of a nonprofit organization license based on suitability criteria prescribed by the commission to ensure that the applicant is a bona fide nonprofit organization and that revenue from a charitable poker tournament will be used for bona fide charitable purposes.

(b) The burden of proving suitability to receive or hold a license is on the applicant or license holder.

(c) The commission shall issue a nonprofit organization license to an eligible applicant if the commission determines that the applicant is suitable under the commission's criteria.

(d) The commission may adopt rules providing for a nonprofit organization's continued suitability to hold a license under this chapter and providing for the imposition of sanctions and penalties against an organization that does not comply with this chapter or rules adopted under this chapter.

(e) The opportunity to hold a nonprofit organization license is a revocable privilege and not a right or property under the United States Constitution or the Texas Constitution. An applicant for or holder of a nonprofit organization license does not have a vested interest or right in a license granted under this chapter.

Sec. 2004.134. PERMIT FOR CHARITABLE POKER TOURNAMENT. (a) A licensed operator may conduct a charitable poker tournament only for which the operator holds a permit issued under this section.

(b) A licensed operator may apply for a permit to conduct a charitable poker tournament by filing an application with the commission on a form prescribed by the commission accompanied by the required fee not less than 30 days before the date of the charitable poker tournament.

(c) The application must include the location, date, and hours of the charitable poker tournament and the name of the licensed nonprofit organization the tournament will benefit.

(d) The application for a charitable poker tournament permit must:

(1) be submitted in accordance with commission rules;

(2) include the address and dimensions of the facility where the tournament will occur;

(3) include the date and hours of the tournament;

(4) include the name of each licensed nonprofit organization the tournament will benefit; and

(5) include the number of poker tables requested for the tournament, including the number of tables that are electronic poker tables.

(e) An applicant for a charitable poker tournament permit shall:

(1) sign the application; and

(2) attest under penalties of perjury that the information contained in the application is true, correct, and complete.

(f) Not later than the 10th day after the date the commission grants an application for a permit, the commission shall deliver the permit to the licensed operator. The permit must state the location, date, hours, and number of tables authorized for the charitable poker tournament. The operator must prominently display the permit at the charitable poker tournament.

(g) The permit is valid only for the hours, date, and location specified by the permit.

(h) A licensed operator may only operate the number of poker gaming tables specified in the permit at the charitable poker tournament.

Sec. 2004.135. CHARITABLE POKER TOURNAMENT; NET PROCEEDS. (a) A licensed operator may conduct a charitable poker tournament for the benefit of a licensed nonprofit organization.

(b) A licensed operator shall pay to a licensed nonprofit organization all net proceeds from a charitable poker tournament not later than the 30th day after the date of the tournament. The expenses of conducting the tournament deducted by a licensed operator may not exceed 30 percent of gross receipts. The expenses must be reasonable or necessary to conduct the poker gaming and may include expenses for:

(1) advertising, including the cost of printing poker gaming gift certificates;

(2) security;

(3) repairs to equipment and the premises where the tournament is conducted;

(4) poker gaming equipment and supplies used during the tournament;

(5) prizes;

(6) taxes in accordance with Subchapter H;

(7) rental or mortgage and insurance expenses;

(8) bookkeeping, legal, or accounting services related to the tournament;

(9) fees for dealers, cashiers, janitorial services, and utility supplies and services;

(10) the permit fee; and

(11) debit card transaction fees.

(c) A licensed nonprofit organization must use the proceeds from the charitable poker tournament for its charitable purposes.

Sec. 2004.136. DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION LICENSE. (a) The commission may deny an application for or suspend, limit, or revoke a nonprofit organization's license for any reasonable cause.

(b) If the commission determines that it has reasonable grounds to believe that a licensed nonprofit organization might be unsuitable to continue to hold the license, for protection of the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the people of this state and of the reputation of this state's poker gaming industry, the commission shall conduct an investigation and hearing in accordance with Subchapter J and, based on the commission's determination, may deny, suspend, limit, or revoke the license.

(c) A nonprofit organization that has had a license suspended or revoked may not receive, directly or indirectly, any proceeds, compensation, consideration, or payment of any kind relating to the conduct of a charitable poker tournament, other than a tournament that took place before the suspension or revocation. [Sections 2004.137-2004.150 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER D. EMPLOYEE'S LICENSES

Sec. 2004.151. DEALER'S LICENSE REQUIRED. A person may not act as a dealer unless the person holds a dealer's license.

Sec. 2004.152. ISSUANCE OF DEALER'S LICENSE. (a) A licensed operator shall ensure that each dealer employed by the operator holds a dealer's license issued by the commission.

(b) A dealer's license application must:

(1) be submitted in accordance with commission rules;

(2) contain the information the commission requires to determine the applicant's suitability and eligibility to act as a dealer; and

(3) be accompanied by the required application fee.

(c) An applicant for a dealer's license shall:

(1) sign the application; and

(2) attest under penalties of perjury that the information contained in the application is true, correct, and complete.

(d) The commission shall conduct a criminal background check on each applicant for a dealer's license.

(e) Not later than the 60th day after the date the commission grants an application for a dealer's license, the commission shall issue a dealer's badge to the applicant. A licensed dealer must prominently display on the dealer's person the badge issued by the commission at all times when the dealer is on the premises of a licensed operator as an employee of the licensed operator.

Sec. 2004.153. RESIDENCY. A person is eligible to apply for and hold a dealer's license without regard to the applicant's residency in this state.

Sec. 2004.154. DETERMINATION OF SUITABILITY OF DEALER'S LICENSE APPLICANT OR HOLDER. (a) The commission shall determine the suitability of an applicant for or holder of a dealer's license based on suitability criteria prescribed by the commission to ensure that the applicant or dealer:

(1) has not been convicted of a felony;

(2) has not had a complaint alleging physical intimidation filed against the applicant or dealer with a law enforcement authority;

(3) has sufficient business probity, competence, and training or experience in the poker gaming industry to act as a dealer; and

(4) is otherwise qualified to be licensed.

(b) The burden of proving suitability to receive or hold a dealer's license is on the applicant or license holder.

Sec. 2004.155. DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF DEALER'S LICENSE. (a) The commission may deny an application for or suspend, limit, or revoke a dealer's license for any reasonable cause.

(b) If the commission determines that it has reasonable grounds to believe that a licensed dealer might be unsuitable to continue to hold the license, for protection of the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the people of this state and of the reputation of this state's poker gaming industry, the commission shall conduct an investigation and hearing as provided by Subchapter J and, based on the commission's determination, may deny, suspend, limit, or revoke a dealer's license.

(c) On the suspension or revocation of a dealer's license, the license holder may not provide services in any capacity requiring a license under Section 2004.151.

(d) A holder of a dealer's license that has been suspended or revoked may not:

(1) receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, consideration, or payment of any kind relating to the conduct of gaming in any capacity requiring a license under Section 2004.151, other than payment for services rendered before the suspension or revocation; or

(2) serve or function in a capacity that would require a license under Section 2004.151.

(e) The receipt and holding of a dealer's license is a privilege and is not a right or property under the United States Constitution or the Texas Constitution. An applicant for or holder of a dealer's license does not have a vested interest or right in a license granted under this chapter.

Sec. 2004.156. TRAINING PROGRAM FOR LICENSED DEALERS. (a) A licensed dealer shall complete a training program in accordance with commission rule.

(b) A training program approved by the commission must include training related to:

(1) the conduct of poker gaming;

(2) the administration and operation of poker gaming;

(3) the promotion of poker gaming; and

(4) gaming awareness, including:

(A) problem or compulsive gambling;

(B) cheating techniques;

(C) underage gaming; and

(D) criminal awareness.

(c) The commission by rule shall establish:

(1) the content and time frame of the training program;

(2) information related to training that must be reported to the commission; and

(3) other training program requirements the commission determines are necessary to promote the fair conduct of poker gaming and compliance with this chapter.

Sec. 2004.157. OTHER EMPLOYEE'S LICENSES. (a) The commission by rule may establish other employee's licenses the commission determines are necessary to protect the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the people of this state, including licenses for principal managers, cage managers, owners, and card room service personnel.

(b) A person may not engage in any conduct for which the commission requires a person to hold a license under this section unless the person holds the applicable license.

(c) The commission by rule shall prescribe procedures governing licenses issued under this section as the commission determines appropriate. [Sections 2004.158-2004.200 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER E. MANUFACTURER'S AND DISTRIBUTOR'S LICENSES

Sec. 2004.201. MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE. (a) A person may not engage in any activity related to the poker gaming equipment manufacturing industry in this state for which a manufacturer's license is required unless the person holds a manufacturer's license for that activity.

(b) The commission shall adopt rules identifying activities related to the design, manufacture, assembly, production, sale, lease, marketing, distribution, or repair of poker gaming equipment in this state for use in poker gaming authorized under this chapter that the commission determines appropriate for licensing under this section.

(c) A manufacturer's license is personal to the license holder and allows the holder to conduct business related to the licensed activity with any premises licensed to operate electronic poker tables and poker gaming in this state.

Sec. 2004.202. DISTRIBUTOR'S LICENSE. (a) A person may not distribute or offer to distribute poker gaming equipment for use in poker gaming authorized under this chapter in this state, including electronic poker tables, unless the person holds a distributor's license under this subchapter.

(b) A person must obtain a distributor's license to distribute poker gaming equipment in this state to a licensed operator for use on premises at which poker gaming is conducted for profit.

(c) A distributor's license is personal to the license holder and allows the holder to conduct business with any premises licensed to operate poker gaming in this state. The license is not transferable.

Sec. 2004.203. LICENSE APPLICATION. (a) In accordance with commission rules, an applicant for a manufacturer's license or distributor's license shall file with the commission an application that contains information the commission requires to determine the suitability and eligibility of the applicant.

(b) The application must be signed by an applicant that is an individual or by the presiding officer and the secretary of an applicant that is a company. Each signatory shall attest under penalties of perjury that the information contained in the application is true, correct, and complete.

(c) An application for a manufacturer's license or distributor's license must be accompanied by the required application fee.

Sec. 2004.204. SUITABILITY DETERMINATION. (a) In considering the suitability of a company applying for or holding a manufacturer's license or distributor's license, the commission shall consider the suitability of each principal manager and each holder of an equity interest or creditor interest in the company applicant to individually receive and hold a manufacturer's license or distributor's license based on the suitability standards that apply to the company applicant. A person may not hold a manufacturer's license or distributor's license if that person would be found unsuitable to hold an operator's license.

(b) If the commission determines that it has reasonable grounds to believe an applicant or license holder is unsuitable to hold a manufacturer's license or distributor's license, the commission shall conduct an investigation and hearing under Subchapter J and, based on the commission's determination, may deny, suspend, limit, or revoke the license.

(c) On suspension or revocation of a license, the license holder may not perform any manufacturing activity or distribution activity requiring a license under this chapter. A holder of a manufacturer's or distributor's license that has been suspended or revoked may not receive, directly or indirectly, compensation, consideration, or payment of any kind relating to any manufacturing or distribution activity in any capacity requiring a license under this chapter, other than payment for goods provided before the suspension or revocation.

(d) A licensed operator who has entered into a lease with a manufacturer or distributor whose license has been suspended or revoked may continue to make payments on the lease based on the original terms of the lease without modification or may accelerate the lease and pay it off, at the sole option of the operator.

(e) The burden of proving suitability to receive or hold a manufacturer's or distributor's license is on the applicant or license holder. [Sections 2004.205-2004.300 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER F. LICENSE RENEWAL

Sec. 2004.301. TEMPORARY LICENSE. (a) Before issuing a license under this chapter, the commission may issue a temporary license for a period not to exceed six months and may renew the temporary license as many times as the commission determines appropriate on the payment of the fee and execution of the bond, if required.

(b) The commission may issue a temporary license only to a person the commission believes will be qualified to hold the license based on:

(1) the commission's review of the background investigations conducted by other state agencies or other government agencies in United States jurisdictions with regulated poker gaming activities; and

(2) the commission's determination that the background investigations of the applicant failed to reveal anything that would cause the applicant not to qualify for a license in this state.

Sec. 2004.302. TERM; RENEWAL. (a) A license issued under this chapter expires on the first anniversary of the date of issuance.

(b) A license holder may annually renew a license by meeting the commission's licensing requirements and paying the annual license fee.

(c) A commercial operator must at all times hold:

(1) an alcoholic beverage license or permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission authorizing the operator to serve alcoholic beverages on the premises licensed by the commission; or

(2) a pari-mutuel license issued by the Texas Racing Commission authorizing the applicant to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race.

(d) The operator shall submit with each license renewal fee a renewal application on a form developed by the commission.

(e) A commercial operator shall immediately notify the commission on cancellation or revocation by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission of any license or permit authorizing the operator to serve alcoholic beverages on the premises licensed by the commission. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission shall notify the commission when it cancels or revokes a license or permit authorizing an operator to serve alcoholic beverages.

(f) A commercial operator shall immediately notify the commission on cancellation or revocation by the Texas Racing Commission of any pari-mutuel license held by the commercial operator authorizing the operator to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race. The Texas Racing Commission shall notify the commission when the Texas Racing Commission cancels or revokes a pari-mutuel license authorizing an operator to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race.

(g) The commission shall adopt rules for temporary suspension of a commercial operator's license pending reissuance of the license or reissuance of a permit to serve alcoholic beverages on the premises licensed by the commission. [Sections 2004.303-2004.350 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER G. APPLICATION AND LICENSE FEES

Sec. 2004.351. APPLICATION FEES. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), an applicant for a license required by this chapter shall pay an application fee in the amount of:

(1) $1,000 for a commercial operator's license;

(2) $1,000 for a charitable operator's license;

(3) $100 for a nonprofit organization license;

(4) $100 for a dealer's license;

(5) $250 for a manufacturer's license; or

(6) $250 for a distributor's license.

(b) The commission may increase an application fee if the amount prescribed by Subsection (a) does not cover the commission's cost of evaluating the application and issuing a license.

(c) Application fees are nonrefundable and must:

(1) be in the form prescribed by the commission; and

(2) be payable to the commission.

(d) The commission shall apply an application fee toward the cost of investigating the applicant's suitability for licensing or qualification under this chapter. The applicant shall pay any costs of investigation incurred in excess of the assessed application fee.

Sec. 2004.352. LICENSE FEES. A holder of a license issued under this chapter shall annually pay the commission a license fee in the amount of:

(1) $1,000 for a charitable or commercial operator's license;

(2) $100 for a dealer's license;

(3) $250 for a manufacturer's license;

(4) $250 for a distributor's license; or

(5) $100 for a nonprofit organization license. [Sections 2004.353-2004.400 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER H. TAXES

Sec. 2004.401. GROSS RECEIPTS TAX. (a) A tax is imposed on the gross receipts received in connection with the premises of a commercial operator conducting poker gaming under this chapter.

(b) The tax rate is 18 percent of the gross receipts received by a commercial operator for poker gaming unless the poker gaming is for a charitable poker tournament.

(c) The tax rate is five percent of the gross receipts received by a licensed operator during a charitable poker tournament.

Sec. 2004.402. PAYMENT AND REPORTING OF TAX. (a) A licensed operator must electronically submit a report of each day's total gross receipts to the comptroller not later than 5 p.m. on the day following the day the gross receipts were collected.

(b) The tax is due and payable by the licensed operator to the comptroller not later than the deadline provided by Subsection (a) for the report required by that subsection. The depository used by a licensed operator for deposit of gross receipts taxes due to the comptroller must be a licensed financial institution located in this state. The comptroller may sweep or debit the licensed operator's bank account on a daily basis to collect the gross receipts tax due and payable. A licensed operator may not continue to conduct any poker gaming activity on the operator's premises if, at the time the comptroller sweeps the account, the amount reported under Subsection (a) is not available for collection.

(c) The report of a tax must be filed under oath on forms prescribed by the commission.

(d) The comptroller and the commission shall adopt rules for the payment of the tax.

(e) A licensed operator required to file a tax return with the comptroller shall provide a copy of the tax return to the commission in the manner prescribed by commission rule.

(f) The comptroller shall deposit the revenue collected under this section to the credit of the poker gaming revenue fund.

Sec. 2004.4025. POKER GAMING REVENUE FUND. (a) The poker gaming revenue fund is established as an account held outside the treasury.

(b) Money in the poker gaming revenue fund may be used only for the following purposes:

(1) the payment of costs incurred by this state in the regulation of poker gaming under this chapter; and

(2) after a sufficient amount is retained in the fund to cover the costs provided by Subdivision (1), the balance to be transferred on or before the 15th day of each month to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to be used only as follows:

(A) 50 percent for grants to municipalities, counties, and nonprofit organizations to support activities relating to:

(i) shelter and services for the homeless and the prevention of homelessness;

(ii) renovation of shelters for use as homeless shelters;

(iii) assistance to the homeless in obtaining permanent housing;

(iv) medical and psychological counseling for the homeless; and

(v) the supervision, development, and implementation of homeless prevention activities; and

(B) the remainder to the housing trust fund established under Section 2306.201, Government Code.

Sec. 2004.403. PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO PAY OR REPORT TAX. (a) A licensed operator that fails to deposit gross receipts tax due and payable to the comptroller for the gross receipts collected at the operator's premises by the deadline for payment of the tax prescribed by Section 2004.402 may not conduct poker gaming at those premises until the tax is paid.

(b) For an electronic poker table, the comptroller shall:

(1) electronically communicate with each electronic poker table daily to verify that the software for the table is functioning properly;

(2) electronically verify that this state has collected the gross receipts tax imposed on the gross receipts of the electronic poker table;

(3) develop rules providing minimum standards for electronic poker tables used for charitable gaming activities; and

(4) electronically communicate with the table to permit the table to be operational that day.

(c) If the gross receipts tax for an electronic poker table has not been collected or the software for the electronic poker table is not functioning properly, the comptroller shall prohibit the operation of the electronic poker table by ensuring the table does not receive the necessary communication from the comptroller to be operational that day. The licensed operator must give the comptroller and the commission assurances that the electronic poker table will not open for play on that day or any subsequent day until all gross receipts tax, interest, and penalties have been paid. The comptroller shall adopt rules related to the assurances that a licensed operator must give to the comptroller and commission under this subsection.

(d) If a person fails to report gross receipts as required by this subchapter or fails to pay to the comptroller taxes imposed under this subchapter later than the second day after the date the report or payment is due, the commission shall compute and determine the amount of taxes required to be paid and shall assess a penalty equal to five percent of the taxes owed. If the payment is not received by the 30th day after the date the gross receipts tax is due, the commission shall assess an additional penalty equal to five percent of the gross receipts tax.

(e) A delinquent tax accrues interest at the rate provided by Section 111.060, Tax Code, beginning on the 60th day after the tax due date.

(f) Interest at the rate of 10 percent a year attaches to a delinquency penalty imposed under Subsection (d), beginning on the 60th day after the date the penalty is imposed.

Sec. 2004.404. RECOMPUTATION OF TAX. (a) If the commission is not satisfied with a tax return or the amount of tax required to be remitted under this chapter to this state by a licensed operator, the commission or the comptroller may compute and determine the amount required to be paid on the basis of:

(1) the facts contained in the return or report of receipts; or

(2) any information that the commission or comptroller possesses, or that may come into the possession of the commission, without regard to the period covered by the information.

(b) A licensed operator subject to a tax computed under this section may request an investigation and hearing under Subchapter J, at which the person may present evidence on the amount of tax due.

(c) The commission shall conduct an audit of the person's accounts as part of the investigation under Section 2004.501.

Sec. 2004.405. DETERMINATION IF NO RETURN MADE. (a) If a licensed operator fails to make a required return or if a person conducts poker gaming without a license issued under this chapter, the commission shall estimate the gross receipts received by the operator or person. The estimate must cover the period for which the operator failed to make a return or during which the person conducted poker gaming without a license.

(b) An estimate under this section must be based on any information covering any period that the commission possesses or that may come into the possession of the commission.

(c) On the basis of the commission's estimate, the commission shall compute and determine the amount of taxes imposed by this subchapter on those gross receipts and assess a penalty equal to 10 percent of that tax amount.

(d) One or more determinations may be made under this section for one or more periods.

Sec. 2004.406. JEOPARDY DETERMINATION. (a) If the commission believes that the collection of a gross receipts tax required to be paid or the amount of a determination under Section 2004.405 will be jeopardized by delay, the commission shall make a determination of the amount of the tax required to be collected, noting the finding of jeopardy on the determination. The determined amount is due and payable immediately.

(b) If a license holder does not pay the amount specified by a determination on or before the 20th day after the date of service of the determination on the license holder, the amount becomes final at the end of the 20th day unless the license holder files a petition for redetermination on or before the 20th day after service of notice of the determination.

(c) A delinquency penalty of 10 percent of the tax and interest at the rate of 10 percent a year attaches to the amount of the tax required to be collected.

Sec. 2004.407. APPLICATION OF TAX LAWS. Subtitle B, Title 2, Tax Code, applies to the administration, collection, and enforcement of the gross receipts tax imposed under Section 2004.401 except as modified by this chapter.

Sec. 2004.408. DELINQUENCY: SEIZURE AND SALE. (a) At any time within three years after a person becomes delinquent in the payment of a gross receipts tax imposed under this subchapter, the commission may collect the amount under this section.

(b) The commission may order the sheriff or constable for the jurisdiction in which licensed poker gaming tables for which a gross receipts tax is delinquent to conduct the seizure and sale authorized by this section. The sheriff or constable may deduct reasonable expenses from any amount realized by sale of the property.

(c) The commission or sheriff or constable shall seize personal or real property of the license holder that is not exempt from execution under the laws of this state and sell the property at public auction to pay the amount of taxes due, any interest or penalties due on those taxes, and any expense incurred in connection with the seizure and sale. Personal property shall be seized and sold first, and real property may be seized and sold only if the sale of personal property does not produce an amount sufficient to pay the total amount of taxes, interest, or penalties due. The seizure and sale must be conducted in accordance with applicable state law.

Sec. 2004.409. SECURITY. (a) Not later than the fifth day after the date the licensed operator receives notice from the commission of an order approving the application for an operator's license, each operator, to secure payment of the gross receipts tax imposed under this subchapter, shall furnish to the commission security in the form and amount the commission considers appropriate, which may be in the form of:

(1) a cash bond;

(2) a bond from a surety company chartered or authorized to conduct business in this state;

(3) certificates of deposit;

(4) certificates of savings;

(5) United States treasury bonds; or

(6) subject to the approval of the commission, an assignment of negotiable stocks or bonds.

(b) The commission shall set the amount of the security, taking into consideration the amount of money that has or is expected to become due from the licensed operator, based on the number of poker gaming tables to be operated on the operator's premises. The commission may adjust the amount of security required after the licensed operator begins conducting poker gaming on the premises and paying gross receipts taxes.

(c) If a license holder fails to pay the gross receipts tax imposed under this subchapter, the commission may notify the license holder and any surety of the delinquency by jeopardy or deficiency determination. If payment is not made when due, the commission may order the forfeit of all or part of the security to cover the amount due.

(d) If the licensed operator ceases to conduct poker gaming and relinquishes the operator's license, the commission shall authorize the release of all security on a determination that no amounts of the gross receipts tax remain due and payable under this subchapter. [Sections 2004.410-2004.450 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER I. REGULATION OF POKER GAMING OPERATIONS

Sec. 2004.451. REGULATION OF POKER GAMING OPERATIONS. The commission shall adopt rules applicable to the operation of poker gaming at a licensed operator's premises as the commission determines necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the people of this state and of the reputation of this state's poker gaming industry.

Sec. 2004.452. HOURS OF OPERATION. A licensed operator may conduct poker gaming on the premises covered by the license during the hours of operation allowed in the alcoholic beverage license or permit issued by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission or in applicable local law, or at any time if the operator's hours of operation are not so limited. A licensed operator may elect other hours of operation. The hours of operation for poker gaming must be clearly posted in the poker gaming area. The hours of operation for a charitable poker tournament shall be determined by the commission and be specified in the permit.

Sec. 2004.453. TABLE LIMITS. Table limits for each poker gaming table shall be established by the licensed operator. The licensed operator may conduct tournaments at any time and charge a buy-in fee not to exceed $100 and a tournament registration fee not to exceed $30.

Sec. 2004.454. ELECTRONIC POKER TABLE. (a) An electronic poker table must:

(1) provide each player position with a touch screen that allows the player to:

(A) view cards dealt to the player and the remaining chips and other game information; and

(B) input game decisions;

(2) include a video screen in the center of the table that displays game information, chips bet by each player, and cards dealt to all players;

(3) maintain a complete hand history for a period of 30 days that is accessible to the commission by remote connection;

(4) display the collection fee for the game in a central location viewable by all players;

(5) provide a feature that enables a replay of the previous game; and

(6) provide a feature that enables complete recovery of the complete game if a power disruption occurs.

(b) An electronic poker table must use:

(1) a central server to deal electronic cards to each player in a poker hand; and

(2) a cage management system application to automate the creation and maintenance of accounts for players at the table, to perform cash-in and cash-out functions, and for payment of the gross receipts tax to this state.

Sec. 2004.455. BANK. A licensed operator shall establish on the operator's premises a bank to convert legal United States tender into chips or tokens and to convert chips or tokens into cash.

Sec. 2004.456. USE OF CHIPS OR TOKENS. (a) All poker gaming conducted by a licensed operator shall be conducted using chips or tokens approved by the commission or be conducted on an electronic poker table approved by the commission.

(b) All chips or tokens must bear the logo of the licensed operator's premises and must be manufactured in a manner designed to substantially decrease the chips' or tokens' susceptibility to counterfeiting. The commission may inspect a licensed operator's chips or tokens to confirm compliance with this section.

Sec. 2004.457. USE OF PLAYING CARDS. (a) Poker gaming conducted by a licensed operator shall be played with one or more poker industry standard poker card decks or, for an electronic poker table, on an electronic poker table approved by the commission that displays cards.

(b) Each poker card deck used in poker gaming must be sealed with a label indicating the deck was manufactured or distributed by a licensed manufacturer or distributor.

(c) Not more than 50 separate poker hands may be played with the same poker card deck.

(d) Each poker card deck must be monitored and cataloged in a log that documents the exact location of the cards on a licensed operator's premises.

Sec. 2004.458. RULES OF PLAY. All poker rules used in poker gaming conducted by a licensed operator shall be submitted to and approved by the commission.

Sec. 2004.459. BOND REQUIREMENT. (a) Each employee of a licensed operator who handles cash, other than an employee employed to serve alcoholic beverages, must be bonded.

(b) For each employee required to comply with Subsection (a), a licensed operator shall:

(1) submit to the commission a copy of the certificate evidencing that the employee has obtained a fidelity bond from a surety company chartered or authorized to conduct business in this state; and

(2) post a copy of the certificate in a conspicuous location on the operator's premises.

Sec. 2004.460. BADGES. (a) During the operation of poker gaming, each individual licensed under this chapter shall wear in a prominently visible location on the individual's person a numbered badge issued by the commission.

(b) An individual who ceases employment with a licensed operator shall immediately surrender the individual's badge to the operator. Not later than the 10th day after the date the individual surrenders the badge, the licensed operator shall:

(1) on a form adopted by the commission notify the commission in writing of a change in status of the individual; and

(2) submit the surrendered badge to the commission.

(c) The badge must prominently display on the front of the badge:

(1) capital letters identifying the license held by the individual;

(2) the first name of the individual;

(3) the picture of the individual submitted with the individual's license application;

(4) the badge number; and

(5) the expiration date of the license.

(d) The full name of the license holder, along with the type of license, must be printed on the reverse side of the badge.

Sec. 2004.461. BONUS PROGRAMS. (a) The commission by rule shall establish promotion bonus programs for bad beat hands and other bonus programs. The programs may be statewide or limited to individual premises.

(b) Each licensed operator shall:

(1) collect promotion bonus fees in accordance with commission rule; and

(2) award a bonus that does not exceed $250 to the player who wins the bonus.

(c) The amount awarded under Subsection (b)(2) shall be deducted from the daily promotion bonus fee that would otherwise be remitted to this state.

(d) The commission shall award to the winning player of a bonus program any amount that exceeds $250.

(e) A distributor may collect from the commission an administrative fee, not to exceed 20 percent of the promotion bonus fee paid to a winning player.

(f) A promotion bonus program for bad beat hands or any other bonus program may not be offered for a charitable poker tournament.

Sec. 2004.462. COLLECTION FEE. (a) Each licensed operator shall collect a collection fee on each poker hand played. The collection fee may not exceed 10 percent of the communal pot in each hand of poker played, with a maximum of $4 per hand.

(b) The commission shall adopt rules necessary to administer this section.

Sec. 2004.463. PROMOTION BONUS FEE. (a) A promotion bonus fee may not exceed $1 per hand.

(b) The promotion bonus fee shall be remitted to this state, after deducting the gross receipts tax, the fee used for bonus programs, and administrative fees not to exceed 20 percent of the promotion bonus fee.

Sec. 2004.464. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. (a) A licensed operator shall keep books and records in a manner that clearly shows the total amount of gross receipts and total deposits made by all poker gaming players, including any loss limits set for any player.

(b) The books and records kept by a licensed operator relating to poker gaming operations are not public information, and publication and dissemination of the materials by the commission are prohibited. The commission may publish and disseminate the total gross receipts of each licensed operator at the frequency and in the level of detail the commission considers appropriate.

(c) A licensed operator that is not an individual shall file a report of each change of the operator's officers and directors with the commission. The commission shall, not later than the 90th day after the date of the change, approve or disapprove the change. During the 90-day period, the officer or director is entitled to exercise the powers of the position to which the officer or director was elected or appointed.

(d) The commission may require that a licensed operator provide the commission with a copy of the operator's federal income tax return not later than the 30th day after the date the return is filed with the federal government. The federal income tax returns submitted to the commission are not public information, and publication and dissemination of the materials by the commission are prohibited.

Sec. 2004.465. EXCLUSION OF PERSONS. (a) The commission by rule shall provide for the maintenance of a list of persons who are to be excluded or ejected from poker gaming premises. The list may include a person whose presence in poker gaming premises is determined by the commission to pose a threat to the interests of this state, to licensed poker gaming, or to both.

(b) In making a determination under this section, the commission may consider any:

(1) prior conviction of a crime that is a felony in this state or under the laws of the United States or a crime involving moral turpitude or a violation of the gaming laws of a state or the United States; or

(2) violation of or conspiracy to violate the provisions of this chapter relating to:

(A) the failure to disclose an interest in a licensed operator;

(B) wilful evasion of a fee or a tax; or

(C) a notorious or unsavory reputation that would adversely affect public confidence and trust that the poker gaming industry is free from criminal or corruptive elements.

Sec. 2004.466. INTERNAL AUDIT AND CONTROL SYSTEMS. (a) A licensed operator shall adopt an internal control system that provides for:

(1) the safeguarding of its assets and revenues, which must include means for the recording of cash transactions and balances and evidences of indebtedness; and

(2) the provision of reliable records, accounts, and reports of transactions, operations, and events, including reports to the director and the commission.

(b) The internal control system must be designed to reasonably ensure that:

(1) assets are safeguarded;

(2) financial records are accurate and reliable;

(3) transactions are performed only in accordance with management's general or specific authorization;

(4) transactions are recorded adequately to permit proper reporting of poker gaming revenue and of fees and taxes and to maintain accountability for assets;

(5) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with the licensed operator's specific authorization;

(6) recorded accountability for assets is compared with actual assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any discrepancies; and

(7) functions, duties, and responsibilities are appropriately segregated and performed in accordance with sound practices by competent, qualified personnel.

(c) A licensed operator or an applicant for an operator's license shall describe, in a manner approved or required by the director, the licensed operator's or applicant's administrative and accounting procedures in detail in a written system of internal control. A licensed operator or applicant for an operator's license shall submit a copy of the written system. A written system must include:

(1) an organizational chart depicting appropriate segregation of duties and responsibilities;

(2) a description of the duties and responsibilities of each position shown on the organizational chart;

(3) a detailed narrative description of the administrative and accounting procedures designed to satisfy the requirements of Section 2004.402(a);

(4) a written statement signed by the licensed operator or applicant's chief financial officer or by the licensed operator or applicant, if an individual, attesting that the system satisfies the requirements of this section;

(5) if the written system is submitted by an applicant, a letter from an independent certified public accountant stating that the applicant's written system has been reviewed by the certified public accountant and complies with the requirements of this section; and

(6) other items the director may require.

(d) The commission shall adopt minimum standards for internal control procedures.

Sec. 2004.467. AGE REQUIREMENTS. A person younger than 21 years of age may not:

(1) play, be allowed to play, place wagers, or collect a communal pot, personally or through an agent, or be present during poker gaming at any premises authorized under this chapter; or

(2) be employed as a poker gaming employee.

Sec. 2004.468. VIDEO SURVEILLANCE AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b) or by commission rule for a charitable poker tournament, video surveillance of the poker gaming conducted at each poker gaming table shall be provided by the licensed operator. At least two video surveillance cameras must be dedicated to each poker gaming table. The video records must be maintained for at least 30 days unless a notice is received from the commission under Subsection (d), in which case the video surveillance tape recording must be maintained until the commission notifies the operator that the dispute has been resolved.

(b) Video surveillance is not required if all the poker gaming tables used on the premises licensed by the commission are electronic poker tables approved by the commission.

(c) If a player at a poker gaming table disputes the decision of the dealer regarding the final disposition of an individual game, the player may file a complaint with the licensed operator. The licensed operator shall attempt to resolve a gaming dispute immediately on receiving a complaint.

(d) Players in a poker game must make a formal complaint of the dispute to the commission by the end of the next business day following the date of the poker game. The commission shall notify the licensed operator immediately of the complaint, and the operator shall send to the commission a copy of any video recording related to the complaint.

(e) The commission shall adopt rules and develop forms for use by players for resolution of complaints submitted by players under this section.

(f) The commission shall establish rules for surveillance at charitable poker tournaments.

Sec. 2004.469. QUESTIONING AND DETENTION OF PERSONS. A licensed operator or an employee of the operator may question any person on the poker gaming premises who is suspected of violating this chapter. The licensed operator or the operator's employee is not criminally or civilly liable:

(1) as a result of the questioning; or

(2) for reporting the person suspected of the violation to the director or law enforcement authorities. [Sections 2004.470-2004.500 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER J. ENFORCEMENT

Sec. 2004.501. INVESTIGATION. The commission may conduct an appropriate investigation to:

(1) determine whether this chapter or a commission rule was violated;

(2) determine facts, conditions, practices, or matters the commission considers necessary or proper to aid in the enforcement of a law or rule;

(3) aid in adopting rules;

(4) secure information as a basis for recommending legislation relating to this chapter; and

(5) determine whether a license holder is able to meet the license holder's financial obligations, including all financial obligations imposed by this chapter, as they become due.

Sec. 2004.502. AUDIT. The commission may conduct an audit of a license holder's books and records as part of the investigation. If a recomputation of tax under Section 2004.404 is at issue, the commission shall conduct an audit.

Sec. 2004.503. COMPLAINT. (a) If after an investigation the commission is satisfied that a license, registration, finding of suitability, or prior approval by the commission of a transaction for which approval was required or permitted under this chapter should be limited, conditioned, suspended, or revoked, or that a fine should be imposed, the executive director shall initiate a hearing by filing a complaint with the commission and transmit a summary of evidence that bears on the matter and the transcript of testimony at an investigative hearing conducted by or on behalf of the executive director regarding the matter. The complaint must:

(1) be a written statement of charges that sets forth in ordinary and concise language the acts or omissions with which the respondent is charged;

(2) specify the statute or rule that the respondent is alleged to have violated;

(3) contain a factual allegation; and

(4) not consist merely of charges raised on the language of the statute or rule.

(b) On the filing of the complaint, the executive director shall serve a copy of the complaint on the respondent either personally or by registered or certified mail at the respondent's address on file with the executive director.

(c) The respondent must file an answer with the executive director not later than the 30th day after the date of the service of the complaint.

Sec. 2004.504. HEARING. (a) On receipt of a complaint under this subchapter, the commission shall review all matter presented in support of the complaint and shall appoint a hearing examiner to conduct further proceedings.

(b) The hearing examiner shall conduct proceedings under Chapter 2001, Government Code. After the proceedings, the hearing examiner may recommend that the commission take any appropriate action, including revocation, suspension, limitation, or conditioning of a license, finding of suitability, or prior approval, or imposition of a fine not to exceed $5,000 for each violation.

(c) The commission shall review the recommendation. The commission may remand the case to the hearing examiner for presentation of additional evidence on a showing of good cause as to why the evidence could not have been presented at the previous hearing.

(d) The commission shall accept, reject, or modify the recommendation.

(e) If the commission limits, conditions, suspends, or revokes a license, finding of suitability, or prior approval, or imposes a fine, the commission shall issue a written order.

(f) A limitation, condition, revocation, suspension, or fine imposed is effective according to its terms until reversed following judicial review, except that the commission may stay its order pending a rehearing or judicial review on terms and conditions the commission considers proper.

Sec. 2004.505. JUDICIAL REVIEW. Judicial review of an order or decision of the commission may be made under Chapter 2001, Government Code. Judicial review is under the substantial evidence rule.

Sec. 2004.506. PRIVILEGED DOCUMENTS. (a) A communication or document of an applicant or license holder that is required by law or commission rule or by a subpoena issued by the commission and that is to be made or transmitted to the commission is privileged and does not impose liability for defamation or constitute a ground for recovery in a civil action.

(b) If a document or communication contains information that is privileged, the privilege is not waived or lost because the document or communication is disclosed to the commission.

(c) Notwithstanding the powers granted to the commission by this chapter, the commission:

(1) may not release or disclose privileged information, documents, or communications provided by an applicant or license holder and required by a court order after timely notice of the proceedings has been given to the applicant or license holder without the prior written consent of the applicant or license holder;

(2) shall maintain all privileged information, documents, and communications in a secure place accessible only to commission members and the executive director; and

(3) shall adopt procedures to protect the privileged nature of information, documents, and communications provided by an applicant or license holder.

Sec. 2004.507. RELEASE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. (a) An application to a court for an order requiring the commission to release any confidential information shall be made only on a written motion delivered not later than the 10th day before the date of application to the commission, the attorney general, and all persons who may be affected by the entry of the order.

(b) Copies of the motion and all papers filed in support of the motion shall be served with the notice by delivering a copy in person or by certified mail to the last known address of the person to be served.

Sec. 2004.508. EMERGENCY ORDERS. (a) The commission may issue an emergency order to:

(1) suspend, limit, or condition a license or finding of suitability; or

(2) require a licensed operator to keep an individual license holder from the premises or to not pay the holder any remuneration for services or any profits, income, or accruals on the licensed operator's investment in the premises.

(b) An emergency order may be issued only if the commission determines that:

(1) a license holder or person found suitable has wilfully failed to report, pay, or truthfully account for a fee, tax, or other amount imposed under this chapter or wilfully attempted in any manner to evade or defeat a fee, tax, or other payment;

(2) a license holder cheated at a poker game; or

(3) the action is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, safety, morals, good order, or general welfare.

(c) The emergency order must state the grounds on which it is issued, including a statement of facts constituting the alleged emergency necessitating the action.

(d) An emergency order may be issued only with the approval of and under the signature of a majority of the commission members.

(e) An emergency order is effective immediately on issuance and service on the license holder or resident agent of the license holder, an employee, or, in cases involving registration or findings of suitability, the person or entity involved or resident agent of the entity involved. An emergency order may suspend, limit, condition, or take other action in relation to the license, registration, or suitability finding of one or more persons in an operation without affecting other individual license holders or persons subject to a suitability finding. An emergency order remains effective until further order of the commission or final disposition of the case.

(f) Not later than the fifth day after the date of issuance of an emergency order, the executive director shall file a complaint and serve it on the person involved. The person against whom the emergency order has been issued and served is entitled to a hearing before the commission and to judicial review of the decision and order of the commission under Chapter 2001, Government Code. Judicial review is under the substantial evidence rule.

Sec. 2004.509. ACCESS TO CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION. (a) The commission, the executive director, and the director are entitled to conduct an investigation of and obtain criminal history record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety, the Federal Bureau of Investigation identification division, or another law enforcement agency to assist in the investigation of:

(1) a licensed operator or an applicant for an operator's license;

(2) a person required to be named in a license application;

(3) an employee of a licensed operator, if the employee is or will be directly involved in poker gaming operations;

(4) a person who manufactures or distributes poker gaming equipment, or a representative of a person who manufactures or distributes poker gaming equipment or supplies offered to a poker card room;

(5) a dealer or other employee license holder or applicant;

(6) a registered owner of an equity or creditor interest in a licensed operator or an applicant for such a registration;

(7) a licensed nonprofit organization or an applicant for a nonprofit organization license; or

(8) if a person described in another subdivision of this subsection is not an individual, an individual who:

(A) is an officer or director of the person;

(B) holds more than 10 percent of the stock in the person;

(C) holds an equitable interest greater than 10 percent in the person;

(D) is a creditor of the person who holds more than 10 percent of the person's outstanding debt;

(E) is the owner or lessee of a business that the person conducts or through which the person will conduct poker gaming-related activities;

(F) shares or will share in the profits, other than stock dividends, of the person;

(G) participates in managing the affairs of the person; or

(H) is an employee of the person who is or will be involved in providing services to a poker card room.

(b) On each anniversary of the date of issuance of an operator's license, the commission shall obtain criminal history record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety on the licensed operator and on each holder of a 10 percent or greater equity or creditor interest in the licensed operator.

(c) Not later than the first anniversary after the date of each license renewal, the commission shall obtain criminal history record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety on each licensed dealer or other employee, manufacturer, or distributor.

Sec. 2004.510. FINGERPRINTS. The commission may deny an application for a license or the commission may suspend or revoke a license or certificate of registration if the applicant fails on request to provide a complete legible set of fingerprints of a person required to be named in a license application.

Sec. 2004.511. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ASSISTANCE; COSTS OF INVESTIGATION. (a) The executive director or the director may request the cooperation of the Department of Public Safety to perform a background investigation of a person listed in Section 2004.509. The commission shall reimburse the department for the actual cost of an investigation.

(b) The executive director may require a person who is subject to investigation to pay all costs of the investigation and to provide any information, including fingerprints, necessary to carry out the investigation or facilitate access to state or federal criminal history record information. Payments made to the executive director under this subsection shall be deposited in the general revenue fund and may be used only to reimburse the commission or the Department of Public Safety for the actual costs of an investigation.

(c) Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the Department of Public Safety may retain any record or information submitted to it under this section. The department shall notify the executive director or the director of any change in information provided to the executive director or the director when the department learns of the change. [Sections 2004.512-2004.550 reserved for expansion] SUBCHAPTER K. PENALTIES AND OFFENSES

Sec. 2004.551. FAILURE TO PAY FEES. (a) License fees and other fees required by this chapter must be paid to the commission on or before the dates provided by law for each fee.

(b) A person failing to timely pay a fee when due shall pay in addition a penalty of not less than $50 or 25 percent of the amount due, whichever is greater. The penalty may not exceed $1,000 if the fee is less than 10 days late and may not exceed $5,000 under any circumstances. The penalty shall be collected in the same manner as other charges, license fees, and penalties under this chapter.

Sec. 2004.552. FAILURE TO REPORT, PAY, OR ACCOUNT FOR FEE. (a) A person commits an offense if the person wilfully fails to report, pay, or truthfully account for a fee imposed under this chapter or wilfully attempts in any manner to evade or defeat a fee.

(b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor.

Sec. 2004.553. FRAUD. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly:

(1) alters or misrepresents the outcome of a poker game on which wagers have been made after the outcome is made sure but before it is revealed to the players;

(2) places, increases, or decreases a bet or determines the course of play after acquiring knowledge, not available to all players, of the outcome of the game or an event that affects the outcome of the game or that is the subject of the bet or aids anyone in acquiring such knowledge for the purpose of placing, increasing, or decreasing a bet or determining the course of play contingent on that event or outcome;

(3) claims, collects, or takes, or attempts to claim, collect, or take, money or anything of value in or from a poker game, with intent to defraud, without having made a wager contingent on the poker game, or claims, collects, or takes an amount greater than the amount won;

(4) induces another to go to a place where poker gaming is being conducted or operated in violation of this chapter, with the intent that the other person play or participate in that poker gaming; or

(5) manipulates, with the intent to cheat, a component of poker gaming equipment in a manner contrary to the designed and normal operational purpose for the component, with knowledge that the manipulation affects the conduct or outcome of a poker game or with knowledge of an event that affects the outcome of the game.

(b) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree.

Sec. 2004.554. USE OF PROHIBITED DEVICES. (a) A person commits an offense if the person, at a premises of a licensed operator, uses or possesses with the intent to use a device, other than a device customarily used in the conduct of poker gaming, to assist in:

(1) projecting the outcome of a poker game; or

(2) analyzing the probability of the occurrence of an event relating to the game.

(b) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree.

Sec. 2004.555. USE OF COUNTERFEIT OR UNAUTHORIZED CHIPS, TOKENS, PLAYING CARDS, OR OTHER DEVICES. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly uses counterfeit chips, tokens, or playing cards in a poker game.

(b) A person commits an offense if the person, in playing a poker game designed to be played with chips or tokens approved by the commission:

(1) knowingly uses a chip or token other than a chip or token approved by the commission; or

(2) uses any device or other means to violate the provisions of this chapter.

(c) A person, other than an authorized employee of a licensed operator acting in furtherance of the person's employment in an establishment, commits an offense if the person knowingly has on the person's body or in the person's possession on or off the premises where poker gaming is conducted a device intended to be used to violate the provisions of this chapter.

(d) A person, other than an authorized employee of a licensed operator acting in furtherance of the person's employment in an establishment, commits an offense if the person knowingly has on the person's body or in the person's possession on or off the premises a key or device known to have been designed for the purpose of and suitable for opening, entering, or affecting the operation of a poker gaming table, a drop box, or an electronic or mechanical device connected to the table or box or for removing money or other contents from the table or box.

(e) Possession of more than one of the devices, equipment, products, or materials described in this section permits a rebuttable inference that the possessor intended to use them for cheating.

(f) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree.

Sec. 2004.556. CHEATING. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly cheats at any poker game.

(b) An offense under this section is a state jail felony.

Sec. 2004.557. UNAUTHORIZED OPERATION OF POKER GAMING TABLES. (a) A person commits an offense if the person operates poker gaming tables without a license issued by the commission.

(b) A person commits an offense if the person operates more than four poker gaming tables at the premises of a licensed operator.

(c) An offense under this section is a state jail felony.

Sec. 2004.558. POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL DEVICES. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly possesses any poker gaming device that has been manufactured, sold, or distributed in violation of this chapter.

(b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor.

Sec. 2004.559. UNLAWFUL MANUFACTURE, SALE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF POKER GAMING EQUIPMENT. (a) A person commits an offense if the person manufactures, sells, or distributes electronic poker tables, cards, chips, or a device intended for use in violating this chapter.

(b) A person commits an offense if the person marks, alters, or otherwise modifies any electronic poker tables, cards, chips, tokens, or poker gaming device in a manner that:

(1) affects the result of a wager by determining win or loss; or

(2) alters the normal criteria of random selection that affect the operation of a game or determine the outcome of a game.

(c) A person commits an offense if the person instructs another person in cheating or in the use of a device for cheating at any poker game authorized to be conducted at the premises of a licensed operator, with the knowledge or intent that the information or use may be employed to violate this chapter.

(d) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree.

Sec. 2004.560. REPORTING PENALTIES. (a) A person commits an offense if the person, in a license application, in a book or record required to be maintained by this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, or in a report required to be submitted by this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter:

(1) makes a statement or entry that the person knows to be false or misleading; or

(2) knowingly fails to maintain or make an entry the person knows is required to be maintained or made.

(b) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly refuses to produce for inspection by the executive director a book, record, or document required to be maintained or made by this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter.

(c) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor.

Sec. 2004.561. GAMING BY MINORS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly permits an individual that the person knows is younger than 21 years of age to participate in poker gaming at premises at which poker gaming is conducted under a license issued under this chapter.

(b) An individual younger than 21 years of age commits an offense if the individual participates in poker gaming at premises at which poker gaming is conducted under a license issued under this chapter.

(c) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

Sec. 2004.562. GENERAL PENALTY; CONSPIRACY. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly or wilfully violates, attempts to violate, or conspires to violate a provision of this chapter specifying a prohibited act.

(b) Unless another penalty is specified for the offense, an offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor.

SECTION 2. Section 47.02(c), Penal Code, is amended to read as follows:

(c) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the actor reasonably believed that the conduct:

(1) was permitted under Chapter 2001, Occupations Code;

(2) was permitted under Chapter 2002, Occupations Code;

(3) consisted entirely of participation in the state lottery authorized by the State Lottery Act (Chapter 466, Government Code);

(4) was permitted under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes); [or]

(5) consisted entirely of participation in a drawing for the opportunity to participate in a hunting, fishing, or other recreational event conducted by the Parks and Wildlife Department; or

(6) was permitted under Chapter 2004, Occupations Code.

SECTION 3. Section 47.06(f), Penal Code, is amended to read as follows:

(f) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (a) or (c) that the person owned, manufactured, transferred, or possessed the gambling device, equipment, or paraphernalia for the sole purpose of shipping it:

(1) to the premises of a licensed operator under Chapter 2004, Occupations Code, at which poker gaming may be conducted under the license; or

(2) to another jurisdiction where the possession or use of the device, equipment, or paraphernalia was legal.

SECTION 4. Section 47.09(a), Penal Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) It is a defense to prosecution under this chapter that the conduct:

(1) was authorized under:

(A) Chapter 2001, Occupations Code;

(B) Chapter 2002, Occupations Code; [or]

(C) the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes); or

(D) Chapter 2004, Occupations Code;

(2) consisted entirely of participation in the state lottery authorized by Chapter 466, Government Code; or

(3) was a necessary incident to the operation of the state lottery and was directly or indirectly authorized by:

(A) Chapter 466, Government Code;

(B) the lottery division of the Texas Lottery Commission;

(C) the Texas Lottery Commission; or

(D) the director of the lottery division of the Texas Lottery Commission.

SECTION 5. Subchapter H, Chapter 151, Tax Code, is amended by adding Section 151.356 to read as follows:

Sec. 151.356. ELECTRONIC AND ELECTROMECHANICAL GAMING DEVICES. An electronic or electromechanical gaming device that is intended to be used to conduct poker gaming under Chapter 2004, Occupations Code, is exempt from the tax imposed by this chapter and from the other provisions of this chapter.

SECTION 6. Section 467.035(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a) The commission may not employ or continue to employ a person who owns a financial interest in:

(1) a bingo commercial lessor, bingo distributor, or bingo manufacturer; [or]

(2) a lottery sales agency or a lottery operator; or

(3) a licensed operator or other license holder under Chapter 2004, Occupations Code.

SECTION 7. Not later than January 1, 2008, the Texas Lottery Commission shall adopt the rules, develop the applications and forms, and establish the procedures necessary to implement Chapter 2004, Occupations Code, as added by this Act.

SECTION 8. This Act takes effect September 1, 2007.