There are currently a trio of casinos providing land-based gambling opportunities in North Carolina. These establishments are managed by two Native American Tribes, providing important economic support through job creation and revenue for various initiatives. Significantly, North Carolina has recently broadened its gambling options by legalizing online sports betting. Though bricks-and-mortar betting has been an option at these tribal casinos for a while, mobile betting is anticipated to launch in the early part of next year, possibly around January.
Despite the undeniable progress represented by the introduction of mobile betting, particularly given the widespread enthusiasm for sports wagering in the state, there is potential for further strengthening of the gambling market in North Carolina. Although lawmakers have not yet explored options for broadening the scope of gambling, a recent report indicates that such deliberations could be on the cards this summer.
As highlighted by the Associated Press, the Senate leader of North Carolina, Phil Berger, recently shared his thoughts on the possible widening of gambling activities in the state. He argued that the seriousness of these discussions is undeniable. When questioned about the likelihood of the state’s governor, Roy Cooper, receiving a proposal that might be tied to a budget agreement or separate, Berger predicted its chances as “better than 50-50.”
Broadening of Gambling to Cultivate New Employment and Boost Tax Revenue
In Berger’s view, the enlargement of gambling in North Carolina would curb the financial losses that accrue due to gambling in neighboring states. Of note, Virginia, a nearby state, recently opened a new casino. Berger recounted that while visiting this venue, located approximately 25 miles from his hometown, he noticed that around 80% of the vehicles parked there bore North Carolina license plates.
By extending gambling activities within the state, lawmakers aim to divert funds from gambling in neighboring states and, simultaneously, augment tax revenue and stimulate job creation. Berger validated that generating supplementary revenue for the state’s treasury would bestow multiple benefits.
“Gaming is already happening in North Carolina, and gaming is taking place on the border of North Carolina that is drawing money out of North Carolina.”
Phil Berger, Senate leader in North Carolina
Although the discourse around the potential expansion of gambling activities in North Carolina is set to continue, there are dissenting voices expressing reservations. Despite acknowledging the potential for increased revenue and job creation, anti-gambling advocates caution that a march towards a statewide increase in gambling might yield more harm than good, unsettling the lives of entire families, including children.
