On Monday, April 12th, 2021, the North Carolina Senate approved a bill that would legalize online sports betting in the state. The vote was 38-11 in favor of the bill, which now moves on to the House for further consideration.
The bill, known as Senate Bill 688, would allow for online sports betting through licensed operators. These operators would be required to partner with one of the state’s two casinos, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals over the age of 21 who are physically located within the state of North Carolina would be able to place bets on professional and collegiate sports. The bill also includes provisions for responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion options and limits on deposits and wagers.
Supporters of the bill argue that legalizing online sports betting would generate much-needed revenue for the state. In a statement following the vote, Senate Majority Leader Kathy Harrington said, “This legislation will bring millions of dollars in revenue to our state and create jobs in the process.”
Opponents of the bill, however, have raised concerns about the potential negative effects of gambling, including addiction and financial hardship. Some have also argued that legalizing online sports betting could lead to an increase in problem gambling among young people.
Despite these concerns, several other states have already legalized online sports betting, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. If North Carolina were to follow suit, it would join a growing number of states that have recognized the potential benefits of legalizing and regulating online sports betting.
It remains to be seen whether the House will approve the bill and send it to Governor Roy Cooper for his signature. However, with the Senate’s overwhelming vote in favor of the legislation, it seems likely that North Carolina could soon join the ranks of states that have embraced online sports betting as a viable source of revenue and entertainment.
