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North Carolina has taken another step towards legalizing mobile sports betting as a bill has cleared another state Senate committee Monday.
The measure (SB 688) was previously approved by the finance committee last week and has both Republican and Democratic support, but the bill still must clear two more Senate panels before heading to the floor for a full vote.
Companion Bill HB 631 was also introduced in the House but is seeing little in the way of any movement.
There is Opposition
The Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League of North Carolina, opposes the bill, arguing it will create new addicts and cause further harm for those who already suffer.
“The most predatory industry in the country purposefully targets and exploits the financially desperate and cultivates addition for profits,” Creech told lawmakers during the hearing.
What's Next?
If the bill passes the Senate and House and Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper signs it into law, the North Carolina Education Lottery commission would issue 10 to 12 interactive sports wagering operator licenses.
North Carolina currently allows sports gambling at the Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort in what is a more remote and difficult-to-access portion of the state.
- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com
