Lawmakers have indicated that there’s not much interest in considering a gambling bill
South Carolina’s push to allow casino gambling in 2026 is already facing serious trouble, with lawmakers signaling the proposal may not survive the current session. A bill that would have opened the door to a casino project was sent back to the House Ways and Means Committee, a move that often stalls legislation before it reaches a full vote.
The bill’s return to committee reflects the uphill fight supporters were already facing. Even if the measure had cleared the House, it was expected to struggle in the Senate, where leadership has shown little appetite for expanding gambling beyond the state lottery. Longstanding resistance in the upper chamber has derailed similar ideas in the past.
Governor Henry McMaster remains a firm opponent, further dimming the bill’s prospects. While some lawmakers hoped an amendment directing 35% of casino tax revenue toward conservation might soften opposition, McMaster has said he would still veto the bill in its current form. That stance leaves little room for compromise.
House Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister acknowledged the challenge, noting that without a change in the governor’s position, the legislation is unlikely to advance. Lawmakers sent the bill back to committee in hopes of reshaping it into something more acceptable, though Bannister admitted the path forward is unclear.
The proposal centered on a casino and resort development in Orangeburg County near Interstate 95 and Lake Marion. Supporters estimated the project could generate around $100 million annually in tax revenue, money they argued could benefit conservation and other state priorities.
Despite those projections, state leaders remain unconvinced. McMaster has reiterated his belief that most South Carolinians do not want casino gambling, echoing positions held by past administrations. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey also expressed doubts, pointing to years of opposition to gambling proposals in the Senate.
With resistance from the governor and Senate leadership, the casino initiative appears close to being shelved for the year, leaving the Palmetto State’s strict gambling landscape unchanged for now.
