The SC House Ways and Means Committee, headed by Bruce Bannister, began weighing a casino gambling bill this morning.
While Bruce Bannister has been unsuccessful, this session, in lowering the tax burden for S.C. residents, this casino gambling bill was the top priority with just days left in the 2025 session.
S.C. residents pay the highest taxes in the South.
S127, (The Catawba in PORS) is the legislation the committee is undertaking.
Understanding Casino Gambling in South Carolina
A gambling commission is established by the legislation. Chris Murphy, Gary Brewer, Gil Gatch, Leon Stavrinakis, Spencer Wetmore, Todd Rutherford, Bill Herbkersman, Wes Newton, Seth Rose, Robby Robbins, Beth Bernstein, and Gilda Cobb-Hunter sponsor the casino gambling bill.
In January, President Trump signed a memorandum seeking Federal Recognition for the Lumbee Tribe residing in SC. Recognition of the tribe means that the Lumbee can build a casino without legislation.
All that is needed is a gaming commission.
Wallace Cheves, a significant Republican donor, is playing a key role in promoting and developing a casino hotel in Santee, SC. He also served as the Finance Committee co-chair during Lindsay Graham’s short-lived 2015 presidential bid.
Should the department of interior, as expected, recognize the Lumbee Tribe, a casino can be built on any land the tribe owns in the state. All that is required is a signature from Governor Henry McMaster’s office.
Locals in Myrtle Beach expect that signature, once the casino gambling bill sets up a gaming commission.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
