South Carolina Proposes Online Sports Betting Bill, Sets 12.5% Tax Rate
Sports betting legalization is gaining momentum in South Carolina, with two similar bills recently introduced in the state legislature.
Sen. Tom Davis (R-46) introduced Senate Bill 444, which proposes to legalize online sports betting with up to eight operators. The bill mirrors an earlier House bill (HB 3625) introduced by Rep. Chris Murphy (R-98) in December 2024.
Athlete celebrates in white jersey
Key aspects of the proposed legislation:
- 12.5% tax rate on adjusted sports betting revenue
- Minimum betting age of 18
- $100,000 application fee
- $1 million license fee
- Only operators established in 5+ states can apply
- Creates South Carolina Sports Wagering Commission
Tax revenue distribution:
- 82% to general fund
- 10% to local governments
- 5% to Department of Mental Health for problem gambling
- 3% for commission operating expenses
The bill also aims to regulate daily fantasy sports (DFS) in the state.
Public interest in sports betting is strong, with GeoComply reporting over 10,000 registered betting accounts and 77,000 geolocation checks during week 16 of the NFL season—a 536% increase from the previous year.
Both bills are currently in committee review, with SB 444 in the Senate Labor, Commerce, and Industry Committee and HB 3625 in the House Ways and Means Committee.