Texas West Texas University Bans Online Gambling Access

University President Walter W. Wendler on Monday confirmed a complete ban on access to online gambling sites on university properties. The decision came after an essay in the Amarillo Globe-News highlighted the rise of gambling sites targeting college students across the country.

The essay was distributed to university staff and students earlier this week, prompting the new measures. The new ban took effect immediately, restricting access to gambling sites on university-owned devices and networks.

Students, faculty, and staff will now be unable to access gambling sites from university devices such as laptops, desktops, phones, and tablets. The ban also applies to access via the university’s WiFi network, including guest networks in academic buildings and other facilities such as Harrington Academic Hall in Amarillo, the WT Center for Entrepreneurship, and the Panhandle-Plains Museum.

The university also cited data from The Conversation, which found that about 6% of college students are affected by problem gambling. That figure is twice the percentage of adults who have the same problem, which is a serious concern.

Wendler noted that students are at a “particularly important stage in their developmental identity,” making them more vulnerable to addictions including gambling, drugs, and alcohol.

He also emphasized, “There is no evidence that gambling can positively impact academic achievement. And the pursuit of academic excellence is our top priority.” Wendler expressed concern that easy access to gambling and sports betting could lead to the development of deeper gambling habits among students.

With only a handful of Native-owned casinos operating in Texas, the state is losing significant gambling revenue to neighboring states. Texans often cross the border to place bets or play at casinos, which Eilers & Krejcik Gaming estimates results in about $300 million in lost tax revenue annually.