North Carolina: sports betting bill to be discussed in June

Despite no progress since a bill was introduced in April, senators expect to discuss sports betting in North Carolina this month.

US.- Sports betting legislation is to be discussed by North Carolina’s Senate in June, according to the sponsors of Bill 688.

The bill was introduced to the Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate by Senators Jim Perry and Paul Lowe on April 8. It hasn’t seen any progress since then, but Perry and Lowe have said they are confident it will advance soon.

The legislation proposes an expansion of sportsbooks beyond the two tribal casinos owned by the Eastern Bank of Cherokee Indians. 

Its backers argue that sports betting in North Carolina has a huge revenue potential and could help fund education.

Currently, the non-regulated sports betting industry in North Carolina is booming. According to estimates, it might stand at nearly $2bn. For comparison, the state lottery generates between $1.5bn and $1.9bn annually.

If the bill is approved, North Carolina will have 12 online licences and will allow owners of sports facilities to launch on-site wagering platforms.