South Carolina’s long‑running resistance to expanded gambling resurfaced in early 2026, as fresh attempts to legalize sports betting and casino gaming once again stalled in the Statehouse.
Lawmakers pushing for online wagering and brick‑and‑mortar casinos struggled to move their proposals through the committee, running into the same political headwinds that have slowed similar efforts for years.
The debate has exposed deep divides among legislators and key interest groups. Opponents continue to raise social and moral concerns, while supporters argue that regulated gambling could deliver new revenue for infrastructure and education. This year’s push centered on bills that would loosen the state’s strict gambling rules by amending the constitution and creating a regulatory framework for betting.
The most notable measure, House Joint Resolution 3353*, sought to add a new section to Article XVII, allowing regulated sports betting and in-person casino gaming in designated areas with voter approval. It also proposed removing a constitutional ban that prevents officeholders from participating in gambling. But despite the renewed momentum, the effort has sputtered.
Bills to authorize mobile wagering or land‑based casinos have repeatedly stalled or been shelved, underscoring how steep the climb remains for any attempt to reshape South Carolina’s conservative gambling laws.
Online Casinos and Other Gambling Options in South Carolina
With few state‑sanctioned gambling options available, many South Carolina residents interested in wagering turn to offshore online casinos that accept players over the age of 18. The state doesn’t regulate online casino play or allow in‑state sports betting, but players can still access licensed international platforms that accept South Carolina customers. These offshore sites offer a wide mix of slots, table games, poker, and full virtual sportsbooks.
Industry guides consistently point out that, because South Carolina doesn’t license real‑money online casino operators, these offshore platforms remain the only legal digital option for residents.
Local SC Casinos and In-State Gambling Options
South Carolina continues to offer some of the most limited gambling options in the country. The state bans commercial and tribal casinos, as well as sports betting, leaving the South Carolina Education Lottery, launched in 2002, as the only state-sanctioned form of gambling. No casino resorts or racinos operate within state lines, and past attempts to introduce them have repeatedly failed.
One workaround exists outside state waters: casino cruise ships that depart from South Carolina ports and offer slots and table games once they reach international waters. These trips provide a narrow alternative but fall far short of full-scale casino entertainment.
Lawmakers have floated proposals to legalize casinos along major highways or tie gambling to economic development plans, but none have gained enough traction to advance. Strong opposition from community groups and faith leaders, who warn of social and family impacts, continues to shape the debate.