TX SB517

Expands the definition of "gambling device" to include any electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical device that offers a chance to win something of value for consideration, removing previous exemptions for amusement devices that awarded small prizes

Broadens the definition of "thing of value" to explicitly include property, money, rights, privileges, gift cards, and any representation of value redeemable for benefits, eliminating the previous exception for unrecorded immediate replay rights

Increases criminal penalties for gambling promotion, keeping a gambling place, possession of gambling equipment, and communicating gambling information from Class A misdemeanors to third-degree felonies

Repeals Section 47.02(e) of the Penal Code, which provided a defense to prosecution for certain gambling offenses

Applies only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, with prior offenses governed by former law