The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance® applauded state leaders Wednesday as a bill that legalizes sports wagering in North Carolina officially became law.
Gov. Roy Cooper signed the historic piece of legislation at a ceremony at the Spectrum Center after the bill was agreed to by leaders of the North Carolina House and Senate last week. Rep. Jason Saine and Sen. Jim Perry were instrumental in getting the bill passed.
As the voice of business for the Charlotte Region, the CLT Alliance advocated for sports wagering in its legislative agenda this year, championing its potential benefit to North Carolina’s economy, revenue streams, and competitiveness.
CLT Alliance President and CEO Janet LaBar and Chief Advocacy Officer Joe Bost joined fellow representatives from the business and sports communities at the bill signing.
“Maintaining a high quality of life in the Charlotte Region is a key component of economic development and tourism for the CLT Alliance,” Bost said. “Sports wagering will keep the Charlotte Region competitive for existing businesses, create new jobs, and facilitate an increase in events hosted in the state, offering a wider variety of activities for all North Carolinians to enjoy.”
At least 35 states across the country are allowing sports wagering and realizing the economic benefits. Two Southeastern states, Virginia and Tennessee, have seen more than $140 million in tax revenue since enacting policies to allow sports wagering.
As with competition for economic development projects and jobs, North Carolina will continue to compete with Virginia, Tennessee, and other states on quality of life opportunities like sports wagering.
