(January 20, 2007)--Billboards and TV ads beckon Texans to casinos in Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico.

But anti-gambling forces have repeatedly blocked casinos or any semblance of casinos in the conservative Lone Star State.

In some circles the idea of casino wagering is as much a Texas taboo as a state income tax.

Battle lines already are being drawn in the 2007 Legislature as gambling interests make a renewed push for casinos.

This time, opponents have the advantage of a $14.3 billion state budget surplus.

The Texas Gaming Association argues the state already has gambling with the lottery and racetracks.

Gov. Rick Perry in 2004 suggested legalizing video slot machines at race tracks to help pay for public schools.

Social conservatives in the Legislature shot down Perry’s measure.

Now the Republican says he thinks ``it is a difficult proposition
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