The North Carolina State Lottery Commission (NCLC) has taken a significant step towards implementing its sports betting program by establishing a dedicated department. Sterl Carpenter, with eight years of experience at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), has been appointed as the Deputy Executive Director of Gaming Compliance and Sports Betting.
Creation of Sports Betting Department:
In response to the enactment of the sports betting bill signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper on June 14 (HB 347), the NCLC has proactively established a new department. This strategic move underscores the state’s commitment to effective regulation and oversight of sports betting activities. The legislation permits betting on a range of sports, including horse racing, professional and college sports, and esports, through mobile devices. Online sports betting is slated to launch in the first half of 2024.
Appointment of Sterl Carpenter:
Sterl Carpenter’s extensive experience in gaming regulation and compliance positions him as a valuable asset to lead the newly created department. With a background encompassing all aspects of regulations, licensing, and compliance gained during his tenure at the MGC, Carpenter is well-suited to guide North Carolina’s evolving gaming landscape.
Mark Michalko, Executive Director of the N.C. Education Lottery, expressed confidence in Carpenter’s ability to lead the new gaming program, stating, “We’re pleased to have someone with Carpenter’s experience and expertise leading this new gaming program in our state.”
Sports Betting Timeline and Implementation:
With the appointment of Sterl Carpenter, the NCLC is poised to navigate the complexities of implementing the sports betting program. The legislation’s provision for mobile sports betting aligns with industry trends, offering convenience and accessibility to residents and visitors alike. The planned launch in the first half of 2024 sets a timeline for stakeholders to prepare for this anticipated addition to North Carolina’s gaming offerings.
Additional Developments in North Carolina:
The article touches on the broader gaming landscape in North Carolina, highlighting ongoing efforts by lawmakers to finalize a budget plan that could introduce up to four new casinos. These potential additions, situated in “entertainment districts” in Anson, Nash, and Rockingham counties, signify a broader expansion of the state’s gaming footprint.
The establishment of a dedicated sports betting department within the NCLC and the appointment of Sterl Carpenter underscore North Carolina’s proactive approach to the evolving gaming landscape. As the state prepares for the launch of online sports betting, Carpenter’s experience positions him as a key figure in ensuring effective regulation, compliance, and the overall success of North Carolina’s sports betting program. The broader developments, including the potential introduction of new casinos, signal a dynamic period of growth and transformation in the state’s gaming industry.