Sports Betting in South Carolina: Latest Legalization News
Author:
Zach Lutz
Reviewed by:
Published:
Dec 18, 2024
,
1:26 p.m.
ET
In states where sports betting is legal, gambling companies continue to see millions (or even hundreds of millions) wagered on a monthly basis, churning out more and more revenue. So in states where it’s not yet legal, discussions around the topic - and the potential tax revenues from it that they’re missing out on - continue to dominate legislative discourse. With Missouri recently becoming the 39th state to pass legislation to legalize sports betting, most of the states that are holding out are feeling more pressure than ever.
In South Carolina, historically one of the most restrictive states regarding gambling, sports betting remains illegal. However, with neighbor North Carolina having gone live with sports betting back on March 11, 2024, and more recent developments, including the introduction of House Bill 3625, suggest that 2025 could bring changes to the Palmetto State’s stance on sports wagering.
Here we’ll break down the current status of sports betting in South Carolina, explore the latest legislative efforts, discuss legal gambling options currently available and explain the risks associated with offshore sportsbooks.
Is sports betting legal in South Carolina?
No, sports betting is not currently legal in South Carolina. While neighboring states like North Carolina and Tennessee have embraced legalized sports wagering, South Carolina’s gambling laws remain some of the strictest in the country. The only legal gambling activities in the state are the South Carolina Education Lottery and charitable bingo.
Still, sports betting has been a recurring topic in the state legislature. Advocates for legalization argue that a regulated market would generate significant tax revenue, create jobs and provide consumer protections. Critics, however, cite moral and societal impact concerns like the potential for problem gambling as reasons to maintain the status quo.
When could sports betting be legalized in South Carolina?
The introduction of House Bill 3625 signals a renewed push to bring legal sports betting to South Carolina. The bill, filed by Representative Chris Murphy (R) and co-sponsored by bipartisan legislators, would establish the “South Carolina Sports Wagering Act.” The legislative session begins January 14, 2025, and if passed, the bill would create a regulated sports betting market, offering up to eight operator licenses and imposing a 12.5% tax on wagering revenue.
The proposed bill also includes provisions for legalizing daily fantasy sports (DFS), which are currently unregulated in the state. Notably, the bill would set the minimum age for sports betting at 18, adding South Carolina to a short list of states that allow wagering for individuals under 21.
South Carolina has consistently rejected gambling expansion efforts, and Governor Henry McMaster has historically opposed such measures, saying “it’s not good for people.” Supporters hope that the success of sports betting in neighboring states like North Carolina Tennessee will sway public opinion and legislative support.
There is documented belief that South Carolina will wait and see if Georgia legalizes sports betting, which could possibly come to fruition in 2025. If Georgia gets on board with North Carolina and Tennessee, it will be difficult for McMaster to let his moral objections trump potential tax dollars being left on the table. It could also become difficult to silence growing calls from citizens to legalize.
College sports could be a sticking point
One of the more contentious issues in HB 3625 is the inclusion of wagering on college sports, including in-state teams. This could come in conflict with concerns about the potential for harassment of student-athletes, which the NCAA has reported an uptick in and has been marked as a growing problem nationwide.
The NCAA has urged states to limit betting on college sports, particularly by banning prop bets or excluding wagers on local teams. While some states have adopted these restrictions, others are considering harsher penalties for bettors found guilty of harassment. South Carolina lawmakers will need to navigate and address these concerns as the bill moves forward.
History of South Carolina sports betting legalization efforts
Efforts to legalize sports betting in South Carolina are not new, but the various bills that have been introduced over the past few years have been futile. Opposition from conservative lawmakers and anti-gambling groups has consistently stalled progress. In 2023, Rep. Russell Ott wanted to support South Carolina’s equestrian industry via horse racing bets. While the initiative narrowly passed through the house, it failed in the senate. McMaster earned another four-year term until 2027 after his opponent for office in 2022, Joe Cunningham, tried and failed by running with a pro-sports-betting stance.
However, with neighboring states pointing to the economic benefits of regulated sports betting – North Carolina could generate $100 million in annual tax revenue by 2027 – pressure is mounting for South Carolina to follow suit. These developments in neighboring states are driving more South Carolinians to cross state lines to place wagers.
Former Panthers tight end Greg Olsen placed the first DraftKings bet in North Carolina
Legal gambling options today in South Carolina
Most forms of gambling, including sports betting, are illegal in South Carolina: Here is a brief overview of gambling availability in the state, outside of sports betting:
Casinos: South Carolina does not have land-based casinos, only casino cruise options.
Lottery: The South Carolina Education Lottery is the primary legal gambling activity in the state, funding educational programs.
Horse Racing: Betting on horse racing is illegal.
Charitable Bingo: Nonprofit organizations can host bingo games for fundraising purposes.
Social Gaming: Small-scale, private poker or card games are allowed, provided there is no house advantage.
Dangers of offshore sportsbooks, sweepstakes gaming and bookies in South Carolina
In South Carolina, where legal sports betting remains unavailable, some residents turn to offshore sportsbooks, sweepstakes gaming or bookies. Note that these alternatives can be very dangerous and open you up to certain risks:
Offshore sportsbooks and bookies operate outside U.S. laws, leaving bettors without protections or accountability. Bettors risk losing their money to payout refusals or frozen accounts.
Offshore sportsbooks and some sweepstakes gaming platforms lack attentive security measures, which can put users at risk of identity theft, fraud and breaches of data.
Many modern bookies and PPH sportsbooks permit placing bets using credit, which can lead bettors into substantial debt and gambling problems quickly.
Participating in offshore or illegal sports betting could result in severe penalties, including fines and prosecution.
Gambling addiction treatment in South Carolina
We know South Carolina is home to stunning beaches, historic charm and vibrant communities. But as many in the states push for legalized sports betting, there lies a growing concern: gambling addiction. In fact more than 400,000 South Carolinians already struggle with gambling addiction, according to the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS).
For residents struggling with their gambling, Birches Health provides comprehensive therapy services across the Palmetto State. Through a convenient telehealth model, individuals can access insurance-covered and discreet evidence-based treatment with licensed therapists from the comfort of home – whether you’re in Columbia, Charleston or another area.
Here’s how to get started confidentially with Birches:
You can also call 833-483-3838 or email help@bircheshealth.com.
