Sports Gambling in South Carolina: Current Legal Status & Laws (2024)
Sports gambling is currently illegal in South Carolina. As of 2024, the state maintains strict laws against all forms of sports betting, whether online or in physical locations. This means residents cannot legally place bets on any sporting events within state borders.
I've found that South Carolina has some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. The state's constitution explicitly prohibits most forms of gambling, including sports betting, with few exceptions like the state lottery.
Several attempts have been made to legalize sports betting in South Carolina. Most recently, in 2023, lawmakers introduced bills H.3095 and S.559 to legalize sports wagering. However, these efforts haven't succeeded, and sports betting remains prohibited.
The current penalties for illegal sports gambling in South Carolina are significant:
- First offense: Misdemeanor with fines up to $500 and/or up to 30 days in jail - Second offense: Misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months in jail - Third offense: Felony with fines up to $3,000 and/or up to 3 years in prison
While South Carolina residents can't legally bet on sports within the state, they often travel to neighboring states where it's legal. The closest legal options are:
- Tennessee (online sports betting) - North Carolina (retail sports betting at tribal casinos) - Virginia (online sports betting)
It's worth noting that offshore betting sites are also illegal in South Carolina. While some residents use these platforms, they operate in a legal gray area and offer no consumer protections under US law.
Looking ahead, there's ongoing discussion about legalizing sports betting in South Carolina. Supporters argue it could generate significant tax revenue for the state, while opponents cite concerns about gambling addiction and social impacts. However, any change would require a constitutional amendment, making legalization a complex and lengthy process.
For the most current information, I recommend checking the South Carolina Legislature's website or consulting with a legal professional, as gambling laws can change over time.