After the raids, District Attorney Kim Ogg. how to open a legal poker room in texas. And what is legal? "Basically, gambling is illegal in this state. The owners of one Houston poker room say they are operating within a narrow margin of the law, but others aren't so sure. You know, we're not Nevada. General Information · Bingo · Eight-Liners · Poker. The clubs were accused of encouraging illegal gambling, money laundering, and criminal activities. ” Local law enforcement officials, including Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo and Harris County. “Our guys are not benefiting from the game. . This legal research guide provides information about gambling laws in Texas. And so there are very few exceptions,". Are you or someone you know facing a gambling charge in Texas? Contact Houston game room attorney Matthew Sharp for help». Poker Rooms in Texas.