Bill > H4176

This bill establishes the South Carolina Gaming Commission to regulate and limit casino gaming in specific counties along Interstate 95, with a focus on economically disadvantaged and rural areas. The bill creates a three-member commission appointed by the Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker, which will oversee the awarding of a single casino license to an eligible county for a 15-year term. To be eligible, a county must contain a section of I-95, be classified as a Tier IV county for job tax credit purposes, and pass an ordinance requesting a casino license. The licensee must invest at least $200 million in property and infrastructure improvements and submit a detailed economic impact study. The casino will be subject to a 15% privilege tax on gross gaming revenue, with proceeds going to the state's general fund. The bill emphasizes that this limited casino gaming is intended to provide economic opportunities and enhance educational resources in targeted rural counties, while strictly controlling and regulating the gaming industry. Licensees and participants in the casino will be exempt from existing gambling prohibitions, and the Gaming Commission will be self-funded through licensing and application fees, with no state general fund money used for its operations.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4176&session=126&summary=B