In a groundbreaking move, North Carolina has officially entered the world of sports gambling as the state’s first legal sports betting operation went live this week. This move comes as several other states are in close pursuit of joining the lucrative industry.
The Cherokee Nation, which operates two casinos in the western part of the state, announced the launch of their new sportsbook, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, just in time for the start of the NFL season. Patrons can now place bets on a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more.
This development marks a significant shift in North Carolina’s approach to gambling, as the state has traditionally taken a more conservative stance on the issue. However, with neighboring states such as Virginia and South Carolina exploring their own legalization efforts, North Carolina is eager to seize the opportunity to tap into the rapidly growing sports betting market.
In a statement, Principal Chief Richard Sneed of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, which operates the casinos, expressed his excitement about the new venture. “We are thrilled to offer this new form of entertainment to our patrons and provide them with a safe and secure platform to engage in sports betting,” he said.
The move comes after the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill earlier this year legalizing sports betting at the state’s two tribal casinos. Governor Roy Cooper signed the bill into law in July, paving the way for the casinos to launch their sportsbooks.
The legalization of sports betting in North Carolina is part of a broader trend sweeping across the country. In recent years, more and more states have moved to legalize sports gambling in an effort to generate revenue and attract tourists. Currently, 30 states and the District of Columbia have legalized sports betting, with several more considering legislation to do the same.
Among the states currently in the process of legalizing sports betting are Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia. Virginia recently passed a bill to allow online sports betting, while South Carolina and Georgia are exploring their options for legalization.
As the sports betting market continues to expand, industry experts predict that more states will follow suit in the coming years. The potential for revenue generation and economic growth is too enticing for states to ignore, making sports betting a key battleground in the ongoing debate over gambling legalization.
For now, North Carolina is leading the way as the state’s first legal sports betting operation goes live. With other states hot on its heels, it’s only a matter of time before sports gambling becomes a widespread and accepted form of entertainment across the country.