Short version: Risking anything valuable on a game, contest or game played with cards, dice, balls (or virtually anything) is illegal in Texas unless the state explicitly permits such activity. (3) plays and bets for money or other thing of value at any game played with cards, dice, balls, or any other gambling device. (2) makes a bet on the result of any political nomination, appointment, or election or on the degree of success of any nominee, appointee, or candidate or (1) makes a bet on the partial or final result of a game or contest or on the performance of a participant in a game or contest That definition is then utilized in the charge of Gambling: 'Bet' means an agreement to win or lose something of value solely or partially by chance. Texas' very broad definition of illegal gambling begins with a definition of what it means to 'bet': Texas takes a fairly strict approach to gambling considered illegal by the state. The state that gave Doyle 'Texas Dolly' Brunson his nickname (or at least half of it) actually has little patience for Doyle and his gambling brethren. Home » US Poker Laws » State Laws » Texas Poker Laws