Gambling Expansion Sparks Increased Scrutiny at South Carolina State House

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCST) -- If South Carolina residents wish to take a chance at winning large sums of money, they have just one choice: participating in the state lottery.

People interested in playing slot machines, rolling dice at a casino, or placing legal sports bets must go to another state since almost every form of gambling is prohibited within the Palmetto State.

However, attempts to broaden gambling opportunities in South Carolina are currently receiving increased focus at the State House compared to recent times, particularly with initiatives aimed at establishing the state’s inaugural casino.

"There’s no better time than now, but most crucially, these projects can’t be delayed, and this region genuinely requires them," stated Wallace Cheves, owner of the Santee Developer Corporation.

Cheves aims to construct a casino on a 40-acre plot previously occupied by a shopping center in Santee within Orangeburg County, adjacent to Interstate 95.

He has already obtained the property and intends to begin demolishing the outdated structures shortly as part of a massive $1 billion initiative. This ambitious plan encompasses not only a casino and hotel but also potentially includes additional amenities such as a convention center.

"This is owned by South Carolina. I am originally from South Carolina. We are ready to put our funds into the project without seeking any incentives," Cheves stated.

However, for this to happen, or for any casino to become a reality, the state laws must be amended.

A bipartisan bill A bill submitted to the House of Representatives aims to create a state gambling commission authorized to issue licenses for casinos in counties located near interstate highways, particularly those with below-average per capita income levels and elevated unemployment rates, such as Orangeburg County.

Meanwhile, senators are considering another bill This would allow for a limited version of sports gambling, particularly bets placed on ongoing horse racing events through approved advance deposit wagering applications.

“This isn’t about the past or slot machines; it’s specifically aimed at the horse industry,” Senator Michael Johnson, R-York, who introduced the legislation, stated.

Revenue generated would provide funding for grants aimed at bolstering South Carolina’s horse breeding sector. This initiative is seen by some as a way to gain broader acceptance among individuals who may typically oppose the expansion of gambling activities.

Simply having Gov. Henry McMaster support the initiative isn’t sufficient.

Let's explore another method to support that noble equestrian sport," McMaster reportedly said to journalists. "We just need an approach that doesn't pave the way for all the unwanted developments in South Carolina.

For these bills to be enacted into law, they would require either the approval with his signature from McMaster, who has long been an outspoken critic of gambling, or sufficient backing in the General Assembly to overturn a potential veto by him, which necessitates at least two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.

"Gambling is detrimental to our culture. It doesn’t form part of our legacy, and there are more effective methods for earning income, providing employment opportunities, collecting taxes, and fostering a robust economy," McMaster stated.

Currently, the horse betting bill is still with a Senate Finance subcommittee, and the casino bill hasn’t had its initial hearing in the House yet. As such, both bills remain some distance from being presented to the governor.

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