South Carolina lawmakers are reconsidering a casino gambling bill that stalled last year as they seek new revenue sources. The bill, H.4716, did not advance in 2025 but may receive renewed consideration as lawmakers pursue additional revenue.
Recent reports indicate that committee chair Rep. Bruce Bannister is preparing a revised financial framework to make the bill more appealing to lawmakers who had been undecided. The updated revenue distribution model would allocate a significant share of gaming proceeds to rural counties along the Interstate 95 corridor, an area identified as in need of economic revitalization.
This article outlines the bill’s revised revenue distribution and reviews 18+ online casino options for South Carolina players in 2026.
Revenue Plan Targets Rural Investment
Bannister’s revised proposal introduces a multi‑tiered revenue breakdown designed to address both statewide interests and the needs of local communities hosting casino properties. Under the draft structure:
- 35% would go to the state’s conservation bank, with half earmarked for farmland preservation.
- 30% would support the Veterans’ Trust Fund.
- 26% would flow into the state’s General Fund.
- 5% would be allocated to the county hosting a casino.
- 4% would be shared among the eligible I‑95 corridor counties.
Supporters believe this new formula can secure bipartisan support by linking casino development to long-term economic and infrastructure needs. Efforts are focused on the I‑95 corridor, where lawmakers see an opportunity to create jobs and modernize communities.
Potential Casino Sites and Political Obstacles
Santee, near Orangeburg County, is a leading location under consideration. Developer Wallace Cheves previously proposed a $1 billion casino resort at the former Santee Outlet Mall site. Although his partnership with the Catawba Indian Nation ended, the tribe has shifted its focus to the Two Kings Casino project in North Carolina.
A significant obstacle remains: Governor Henry McMaster. He has consistently opposed casino expansion and remains unconvinced that commercial gambling is a viable revenue solution. Even with Bannister’s new plan, the outcome is uncertain, and further debate is expected.
South Carolina Online Casinos
South Carolina does not currently permit in-person casinos. As a result, many residents use 18+ online casino sites that offer real-money games. State law prohibits operators from offering casino games within South Carolina, but does not address offshore casino websites that accept SC players.
Online casinos have accepted SC players since the early 2000s. Because these sites are not geofenced, many players across the US prefer offshore options over the limited number of state-regulated online casinos. If South Carolina passes legislation for in-person casinos, online casinos are unlikely to follow. Currently, only 7 states have authorized online casinos, while 44 have brick-and-mortar casinos.