On Wednesday, the North Carolina Lottery Commission, an independent agency that regulates state revenue, unveiled a draft of new sports betting and match betting rules. The Wagering Committee unanimously approved the draft, which would allow for new types of wagering, including retail sports betting and esports betting, for state residents.
The commission has opened a public comment period for the proposed changes and invited the public to provide feedback through Oct. 18. The rules could be incorporated into the state’s official Sports Betting and Match Betting Regulations.
Public Comment Period Until Oct. 18During this time, the public and interested parties can provide comments and recommendations on changes to the new rules. On October 8, the Lottery Commission headquarters in Raleigh will host a public hearing where anyone can speak by registering on the commission’s website.
In addition to verbal comments, comments can be made through online forms and by email. All suggestions must be submitted by the deadline for the commission to consider them.
Preparing the Advance Deposit SystemDeputy Executive Director for Gaming Standards and Sports Betting Sterling Carpenter said that while there is no set date for the launch of horse racing betting, work is underway on an advance deposit system that will allow operators to accept online wagers on horse racing in the state.
While the commission develops technical standards for the system, operators seeking approval will have to pass a compliance review to ensure they meet all requirements.
Esports and Retail Sports BettingNorth Carolinians may soon be able to wager on esports. The commission has already voted to adopt the rules, and if they are approved on September 25, the opportunity will become available.
The state has already collected about $49.5 million in tax revenue from sports betting since its launch in March of this year. The launch date for retail sports betting is expected to be set on a case-by-case basis for each operator and sports venue.
To be approved to launch, operators will need to pass a series of inspections, including on-site inspections, lab certification, and operational requirements.