North Carolina governor signs sports, horse racing betting law; wagering to being in early 2024
Regulated sports betting and horse racing should begin across North Carolina in the first half of next year after Gov. Roy Cooper signed legislation that greatly expands gambling within the state's borders into law
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Regulated sports betting and horse racing should begin across North Carolina in the first half of next year after Gov. Roy Cooper signed into law Wednesday legislation that greatly expands gambling opportunities in the ninth-largest state.
The Democratic governor held the bill-signing ceremony at Spectrum Center, home to the NBA's Charlotte Hornets. It could house one of several anticipated sportsbooks allowed at or near professional sports venues as part of the law that received final approval in the Republican-controlled General Assembly last week.
The new law says betting could begin as early as next Jan. 8 but as late as mid-June 2024, leading to new revenues for the state and what supporters expect will lead to new jobs and stronger in-state pro sports franchises.
“This is an historic moment for the state of North Carolina and this will benefit our economy for generations to come," Cooper said at the ceremony.
