The North Carolina Senate recently voted 26-19 to approve Senate Bill 688, which would legalize and regulate in-person and online sports betting; online wagering only would be permitted at or near sports venues in the state.
The majority of Senate Republicans, who control the chamber, opposed the bill but nine Republicans joined most Democrats in supporting it, noting sports betting already is happening in the state. They said the state could regulate and tax the activity to help pay for public education.
The bill’s sponsor, state Senator Jim Perry, said, “I look at this as more of a voluntary tax from people already taking place in that market. We know they’re already spending, choosing to spend their money that way. And I believe I owe it to the people I represent to try to find alternative means to meet the needs of the community.” The bill now moves on to the House. Perry said, “I’m not going to bet on the outcome” of the measure in that chamber.
Under the measure, the North Carolina Education Lottery would issue between 10 and 12 interactive sports wagering operator licenses plus supplier licenses. The initial licensing fee would be $500,000 for operators; $25,000 for providers of services like a platform or odds; and $25,000 for suppliers.
Gross revenue would be taxed at 8 percent with half the proceeds directed to a special fund to bring sporting events and attractions to the state. Most of the remainder of the money would go to the state’s general fund. with $1 million going to problem gambling services. The legislature’s fiscal staff estimated sports betting revenue could range from $8 million to $24 million.
Observers said licensees could be available as soon as January for wagering on college, professional and some amateur sports, including game outcomes and other categories. Operators also could set up an in-person betting location within or near a professional sports arena or where an annual pro golf event is held.
State Senator Jim Burgin voted against the bill, stating it “produces very little money and it targets young people.” North Carolina Family Policy Council Executive Director John Rustin said residents will be “overcome with advertisements and promotions that are pushing, pushing, pushing gambling on our citizenry.”
