South Carolina Lawmakers Hear Debate Over Sports Betting

Michael Savio
By: Michael Savio
Sports Betting
Photo by Tichnor Brothers, Inc., Boston, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo by Tichnor Brothers, Inc., Boston, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Key Takeaways

  • The South Carolina House held a hearing on sports betting
  • The Senate is considering a similar bill to legalize the industry.
  • Gov. McMaster is strongly opposed to all forms of gambling

While sports betting remains a distant dream for bettors in South Carolina, lawmakers are beginning to reconsider it for 2026.

The South Carolina House Ways and Means Revenue Policy Subcommittee held a hearing over H3625, which would create a legal sports betting market. Supporters and opponents presented their arguments, giving committee members plenty to consider as they reviewed the bill. 

South Carolina is one of 11 US states without a legal sports betting market.

Bill Proposes Operator-Friendly Market

The House bill under consideration appears to focus on creating a competitive market for residents. It would allow for up to eight mobile sportsbook licenses, which fits the size of the market. That would allow industry giants like FanDuel and DraftKings to launch their sportsbooks while also leaving room for smaller, niche operators.

H3625 would set the operator tax rate at 12.5%, which is well below the national average. While many states have been pushing their rates to 20% or higher, others believe a lower rate will mean lower costs and more bonuses for bettors. 

Senate Also Considering Sports Betting

Senators Tom Davis and Matt Leber have proposed SB 444 in the state’s upper chamber. The bill, carried over from the Senate’s previous session, is now being considered by the Labor, Commerce, and Industry Committee.

The bill would impose high licensing fees of $1 million (including renewal fees), but a low tax rate of 12.5%.

The two chambers being aligned on the tax rate is a positive sign, but legalization in 2026 remains unlikely.

Governor Remains Opposed to Industry

While the House and Senate are considering bills to legalize sports betting, South Carolina’s top lawmaker isn’t supportive of the effort.

Governor Henry McMaster has been vocal in his opposition to expanding any form of gambling in the state. He vehemently fought against an effort to bring a commercial casino to the state, repeating his stance against all forms of gambling.

While McMaster is in his final year in office, his departure may not help industry proponents. Former Republican AG Alan Wilson and US Rep. Nancy Mace are expected to be the top candidates to take over. The former is openly opposed to sports betting, while the latter has not provided much opinion.

While the Democrat who earns the nomination may support the industry, it's unlikely the party will win the election. South Carolina has had just two Governors from the party since 1975, serving a combined 12 years.

Michael is a writer from Denver who covers the sports betting industry for Casino.com. He has been covering the industry for over four years, focusing on providing accurate and easy-to-understand information for readers. When he’s not covering the industry, he’s betting on sports or exploring everything that Colorado has to offer.