Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus is leading the opposition against a controversial tax proposal included in President Donald Trump’s latest economic package. She warns this could negatively impact gamblers and harm her state’s tourism-driven economy.
Titus, a Democrat representing the Las Vegas area, opposes the Senate’s version of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which introduces a new limitation on the amount gamblers can deduct from their winnings. The proposed change allows gamblers to deduct only 90% of their losses, meaning they would owe taxes even if they break even or lose money over the year.
Titus criticized the measure as unfair and detrimental to Nevada’s major industry. She emphasized that it would not only affect professional poker players or high-stakes gamblers but also regular visitors who enjoy slot machines or table games, leading them to face unexpected tax bills.
In a discussion, Titus highlighted that this rule could drive people to unregulated gambling markets, which lack customer protections and do not contribute to state and local economies, as reported by The Hill. She argued that legalized gambling businesses invest in communities by generating jobs, building infrastructure, and supporting responsible gaming initiatives.
Titus condemned the Republicans for inserting the provision into a comprehensive bill already filled with deep cuts to social programs like healthcare, education grants, and clean energy projects. She described the gambling tax amendment as an additional blow to districts reliant on tourism and gaming.
Titus committed to proposing an amendment to restore the current 100% loss deduction. If Republican leaders block her proposal, she plans to pursue separate legislation to reverse the tax change.
The bill narrowly passed the Senate, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. The House version has yet to include the gambling provision, offering Titus an opportunity to intervene. However, she warned that the provision’s anticipated $1.1 billion in tax revenue could pose a significant challenge, as lawmakers aim to mitigate the broader financial implications of the bill.
Titus’ position has received support from professional gamblers and industry advocates, who share her concerns about pushing gamblers towards offshore and illegal markets. She is determined to protect her state’s crucial industry, framing the issue as not just a matter of fairness for gamblers, but as a critical economic battle for Nevada.
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com