Last week the Senate finance committee passed SB 688, which still must be approved by two more committees before it can receive a full floor vote.
The bill would establish 10 to 12 interactive sports betting operator licenses, which include mobile and expanded retail wagering. The North Carolina House is considering similar legislation in its chamber.
The North Carolina Education Lottery commission would oversee issuing of licenses. Half of the net proceeds would be collected by the state. Gross gaming revenue would be taxed at 8%.
SB 688 faces opposition from groups who say legalizing sports betting would endanger problem gamblers.
“The most predatory industry in the country purposefully targets and exploits the financially desperate and cultivates addition for profits,” Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League of North Carolina told lawmakers according to the Associated Press.
A recent poll from East Carolina University found 54% of North Carolinians support legalized sports betting. When asked if they would rather North Carolina take in sports betting revenue or raise property taxes, respondents were 80% in favor of sports betting legalization.
Sports betting is already live at Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos in Cherokee and Murphy. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians operate the pair of casinos and partnered with William Hill (now Caesars Entertainment) for sportsbooks at the properties.
North Carolina Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper has stated his support for legalized sports betting if a bill is passed by the state legislature.
