Relating to definitions for purposes of gambling criminal offenses and the prosecution of gambling criminal offenses.

HB 2996 amends Texas Penal Code sections 47.01 and 47.04 to clarify definitions related to gambling offenses. It defines "economic benefit" as direct winnings from games of skill or luck (excluding pre-game benefits) and defines "private place" as locations requiring membership or permission (excluding streets, restaurants, and common areas of buildings). The bill establishes a defense for gambling prosecutions if the activity occurred in a private place, no one received economic benefits beyond personal winnings, and all participants faced equal risks and chances of winning. This directly affects individuals and venues involved in gambling, particularly in private settings like clubs or member-only spaces, and applies to offenses committed on or after its effective date.