Tilman Fertitta has long wanted to bring grand resort-style casinos to Texas. But despite years of effort, including hiring lobbyists and donating to politicians, the Houston billionaire and other like-minded business titans have run into more powerful forces in the state: morality and politics.

Now, Fertitta – who owns Golden Nugget casinos and has an estimated net worth of $11 billion – is seeing signs of progress. One reason: He’s got more company from casino backers who also want to overturn a gambling ban that’s existed for 120 years.