South Carolina Proposes Sports Wagering Legislation

South Carolina legislators have introduced House Bill 3625, known as the South Carolina Sports Wagering Act, in an effort to legalize sports betting as the 2025 legislative session approaches. The bipartisan bill aims to establish a nine-member South Carolina Sports Wagering Commission to regulate the market, with operators required to pay significant fees and a 12.5% tax on adjusted gross receipts. This legislation, if enacted, would allow sports betting through licensed platforms and impose strict operational protocols to ensure integrity and responsible gambling practices. The bill proposes a minimum betting age of 18, distinguishing it from most other states, and addresses funding for mental health services related to gambling addiction. Previous attempts to legalize sports betting in South Carolina have failed, but growing interest and pressure from neighboring states may influence its success this time. The proposed measures also include safeguards to prevent gambling harm, such as self-exclusion tools for bettors.