The anticipated launch of legal sports betting in North Carolina on January 8 is unlikely to materialize, as stated by the North Carolina Lottery Commission following a recent meeting. Despite the legal mobile sports betting market having a window between January 8 and mid-June to commence operations, the commission deemed January 8 an “unrealistic go-live date.”
Key Challenges and Regulatory Requirements:
Sterl Carpenter, the state’s deputy executive director of gaming compliance and sports betting, outlined several challenges and regulatory requirements that operators must navigate before launching. These include the submission and approval of internal controls, demonstrating compliance with jurisdictional boundaries, federal land restrictions, and tribal land regulations within North Carolina. Additionally, operators must gain approval for their application platforms and undergo testing, while presenting and gaining approval for their responsible gaming plans.
Complex Approval Process:
Carpenter emphasized the complexity of the approval process, highlighting the multitude of elements that must be addressed before sports wagering can officially commence in the state. The meticulous review and approval of internal controls, application platforms, and responsible gaming measures underscore the commission’s commitment to ensuring a robust and compliant sports betting environment.
Background on Sports Betting Legislation:
Governor Roy Cooper signed sports betting into law in North Carolina on June 14 through HB 347. The legislation permits mobile betting on various sports, including horse racing, professional, college, and Olympic sports, as well as esports. The sports betting committee of the North Carolina Lottery Commission is actively engaged in discussions regarding the rules governing mobile wagering.
Timeline Extension and Industry Preparedness:
The decision to delay the launch beyond January 8 reflects the commission’s dedication to a thorough and comprehensive regulatory process. This extension provides operators with additional time to navigate the intricate requirements and ensures the industry’s preparedness for a successful and compliant sports betting rollout in North Carolina.
While the delay in the commencement of legal sports betting in North Carolina is attributed to the complexity of regulatory approvals, it underscores the state’s commitment to establishing a secure and well-regulated betting environment. As the industry navigates these regulatory intricacies, stakeholders are optimistic about the eventual launch and the positive impact it will have on the North Carolina sports betting landscape.