According to Winthrop Poll research, a recent poll suggests that approximately 70% of South Carolinians support the proposal to legalize casinos to fund the repair of the state’s deteriorating roads.

Change in Perspective?

Recent polls show a change in S.C. residents’ views on gambling. In a Winthrop Poll from October 2014, 47.3% of S.C. residents favored opening a limited number of casinos, with an equal percentage opposing. When asked the same question this month, without detailing the revenue’s use, 54% were in favor of casinos, and 42% were against. Three percent were unsure, and 1% chose not to answer. When the idea of using casino revenues for road repairs was introduced, support jumped to 68%, with opposition falling to 30%.

UK’s Experience with Online Casino Legalization

The UK claims the world’s largest gambling market in tax revenue.

The nation has set up a clear gambling regulatory system, which prioritizes protecting players from major losses and impulsive gambling actions.

However, strict regulations have unintentionally pushed part of the market underground, resulting in the emergence of “non-Gamban casinos“. These platforms work outside the UK’s GamStop self-exclusion program, presenting potential dangers to at-risk players.

Could North Carolina’s Decision Impact South Carolina’s Sports Betting Legalization?

North Carolina is close to legalizing sports betting. Might this set the stage for South Carolina to follow suit?

Many are optimistic.

Though it might appear to be a straightforward trend, it’s a prevalent one. As states adopt sports betting, neighboring states often feel the push to do the same. This drive comes from multiple sources. The public is becoming more outspoken on the topic. Simultaneously, officials see the potential tax revenue they’re missing as residents go elsewhere to bet where it’s legal. Lawmakers also notice the overall success of sports betting. Once the first revenue figures are released, there’s usually an increase in related conversations.

Where Does Sports Betting Stand in South Carolina?

Sports betting in South Carolina essentially lacks traction. Proposals come up nearly every year, but they consistently lack sufficient support.

This trend continued this year. House Bill 3749, introduced during the 2023 legislative sessions, was detailed in its provisions. It aimed to legalize both online and in-person sports betting in South Carolina. The bill proposed issuing up to eight online sports betting licenses. It also detailed aspects like a consistent 10 percent tax rate, operator licensing fees of $500,000, and how betting revenues would be distributed (mainly to a general fund, with 5 percent set aside for anti-gambling efforts).

However, as it turned out, HB 3749 didn’t advance past the early legislative phases. Still, the bill’s thoroughness suggests that South Carolina has seriously considered the topic.

Conclusions

• It’s interesting to see how times change! Back in 2014, South Carolinians were pretty divided on casinos, but now, 70% are on board if it means fixing up the roads.
• Over in the UK, they’ve got some tight rules around gambling. But, it seems those rules have unintentionally given rise to these “non-GamStop casinos” that might be skirting around player protections.
• North Carolina’s warming up to sports betting. This might just give South Carolina the nudge it needs, especially since there’s already some interest brewing there.