Gambling

While it comes with its critics and concerns, sports betting could benefit 10 UNC System schools, including UNC Pembroke, in a big way. Once betting begins, those schools – the 10 with the smallest athletic department budgets – will split 20% of the yearly tax revenue from legal gambling in North Carolina.

Prospects that another expansion of gambling in North Carolina will be included in a state government budget look unclear after House Republicans gauged support in their caucus.

State lawmakers are considering a plan to allow up to four new casinos in rural areas of the state. They see a newly opened casino in Danville, Virginia as an example of how gambling could help economically challenged communities.

Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters Thursday that Republicans are working on legislation that would allow for casinos in Nash, Rockingham and Anson counties.

When asked to evaluate the chances that legislation allowing some combination of new gambling would reach Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper's desk this summer within or separate from a budget agreement, Phil Berger replied: “I’d say better than 50-50."

The Democratic governor held a bill-signing ceremony Wednesday at Spectrum Center, home to the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. It could house one of several anticipated sportsbooks allowed at or near professional sports venues as part of the law.

The Republican-controlled General Assembly gave final approval to the legislation on Wednesday with a House vote. The Senate OK'd the measure last week. Cooper is expected to sign the measure, which would offer betting on professional, college and Olympic-style sports to adults starting in the next six to 12 months.

The state Senate voted 38-11 Wednesday to legalize online sports betting and betting on horse races in North Carolina and took a final vote Thursday.

Legislation to authorize and regulate sports gambling in North Carolina that passed the House earlier this spring has been altered by the Senate.

State lawmakers are expected to legalize online sports betting this year. But it’s not the only change they’re considering making to gambling laws.