"The phrase, "all hat, no cattle" depicts someone who is big on talk but little on substance.

The term also best describes the prospects for gaming expansion in Texas.

Gambling proponents have put forward a multitude of ideas over the past decade. But they have nothing to show for their efforts.

The 2011 Texas Legislature is no different. Last week, lawmakers considered 17 gaming proposals, everything from building eight Las Vegas-style hotel-casinos to adding slot machines at racetracks.

Dozens of gambling proponents spoke in favor of the activity. Opponents told legislators gaming was not the remedy to solve the state's projected $27 billion budget shortfall.

In end, gaming expansion will fail. Again."

Get the Story:
Inside Gaming by Howard Stutz: Gambling expansion in Texas a long shot (The Las Vegas Review-Journal 4/3)

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