The "South Carolina Sports Wagering Act" seeks to legalize and regulate sports wagering within the state by establishing a new Chapter 55 in Title 39 of the South Carolina Code. This chapter creates the South Carolina Sports Wagering Commission, which will oversee licensing, regulation, and compliance for sports wagering operations. The commission will consist of nine members appointed by state leaders and will be responsible for promulgating regulations, enforcing compliance, and ensuring reporting requirements are met. The bill also introduces a privilege tax of twelve and one-half percent on adjusted gross sports wagering receipts, with specific allocations for the general fund, local governments, the Department of Mental Health, and administrative expenses of the commission.

In addition to the regulatory framework, the bill outlines the licensing process for operators and suppliers, limiting the number of licensed operators to eight and requiring comprehensive applications. It includes provisions for responsible gambling practices, such as self-restriction and voluntary exclusion programs, and mandates the Department of Mental Health to oversee treatment services for gambling disorders. The commission is empowered to conduct investigations, impose fines for violations, and maintain the integrity of sports events by allowing sports governing bodies to request restrictions on certain types of wagering. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval, aiming to create a safe and regulated environment for sports wagering while addressing issues related to gambling addiction and integrity in sports.

Statutes affected:
03/12/2025: 16-19-135
Latest Version: 16-19-135