North Carolina is one step closer to legalizing sports betting after the state’s House Judiciary Committee approved a bill that would allow it. The bill, which was introduced by Representative Jason Saine, would permit sports betting at tribal casinos and horse racing tracks in the state.

The approval of the bill by the House Judiciary Committee is a significant milestone in the legislative process, as it means that the bill will now move on to the House Finance Committee for further consideration. If the bill is ultimately passed by both the House and Senate, it will then be sent to Governor Roy Cooper for his signature.

The bill would allow for both in-person and online sports betting, with a tax rate of 8% on gross gaming revenue. The revenue generated from sports betting would be split between the state and the tribes that operate the casinos and tracks.

Supporters of the bill argue that legalizing sports betting would bring in much-needed revenue for the state, as well as create jobs and boost tourism. They also point out that many North Carolinians are already participating in illegal sports betting, and that legalizing it would provide a safer and more regulated environment for them to do so.

Opponents of the bill, however, argue that legalizing sports betting could lead to an increase in problem gambling and addiction. They also argue that it could have a negative impact on the state’s image and reputation.

Despite these concerns, many other states have already legalized sports betting in recent years, including neighboring states like Virginia and Tennessee. In fact, according to the American Gaming Association, 21 states and Washington D.C. have already legalized sports betting in some form.

As North Carolina moves closer to legalizing sports betting, it remains to be seen how the bill will ultimately fare in the House and Senate. However, with the approval of the House Judiciary Committee, it seems that the state is taking a significant step towards joining the growing number of states that have already legalized this popular form of gambling.