South Carolina, September 7, 2025
News Summary
Equestrians in South Carolina are advocating for the legalization of limited betting on horse races as the legislative session nears its end. Despite passing in the House last year, the bill is stalled in the Senate, facing concerns over gambling addiction. Supporters highlight the potential revenue from legalized betting, which could benefit various equine programs. The move to legalize betting is seen as a way to revive a declining horse racing industry, which once flourished in the state and now struggles due to the absence of legal avenues for betting.
Columbia, South Carolina – Equestrians across South Carolina are pushing for the legalization of limited betting on horse races, urging the Senate to act swiftly as the legislative session draws to a close in just two days. The bill, which has already passed in the House last year with a narrow 54-44 vote, currently remains stalled in the Senate, primarily facing opposition from lawmakers concerned about the potential for gambling addiction and its social consequences.
The proposed legislation seeks to allow betting through up to three state-licensed mobile apps, which would enable residents to place wagers on horse races legally. If enacted, South Carolina could collect up to 10% of the profits from the betting, which estimates suggest could generate between $366,000 and $1.8 million annually. Proponents argue that these funds could substantially benefit various horse-related programs, including equine therapy initiatives and the development of public equestrian trails. However, there are no guarantees that the revenue would be specifically allocated for horse racing activities.
Currently, many residents are engaging in illegal betting on horse races, suggesting a clear demand for legalized options. Advocates of the bill argue that regulating this practice could not only help generate revenue for the state but also revive an industry that has seen a significant decline over the years. South Carolina was once a prominent center for horse training, but as legal betting has not been permitted, many horse owners have relocated to states like Kentucky, where such activities are authorized. Included in this decline is the Aiken Training Track, where the horse population has plummeted from 300 in the winter of 1986 to just around 100 as of last year.
The equine industry holds considerable importance in the state, contributing nearly $2 billion to the economy and supporting about 29,000 jobs as of 2019. Prominent figures within the equestrian community are emphasizing the necessity of the new bill to save their businesses and revitalize this critical sector of the local economy. The potential for enhanced tourism is also recognized, as successful events like the Kentucky Derby prove that legalized betting can stimulate interest and participation in horse racing.
With the legislative clock ticking and only a brief time to rally support, equestrians in South Carolina remain hopeful for a positive outcome that could lead to the revitalization of an industry that was once flourishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the horse race betting bill in South Carolina?
The horse race betting bill has been stalled in the Senate, with lawmakers needing to make a decision quickly as the legislative session is almost over.
How much revenue could legalized betting possibly generate?
The state could potentially collect 10% of the profits from the betting, generating between $366,000 and $1.8 million annually.
What are the primary concerns regarding legalized horse race betting?
Concerned lawmakers have expressed apprehension about the potential for gambling addiction and the broader societal implications of expanded gambling options.
What are proponents hoping to achieve with legalized betting?
Proponents aim to legalize betting to regulate an existing underground market, generate state revenue, and restore the horse racing industry in South Carolina that has greatly diminished over the years.
Key Features of Proposed Horse Race Betting Bill
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Legislation Status | Pending in Senate, previously passed in House |
| Wagering Method | Up to three state-licensed mobile apps |
| Estimated Revenue | Between $366,000 and $1.8 million per year |
| Opposition | Concerns about gambling addiction and societal impacts |
| Potential Benefits | Support equine therapy, public trails, and tourism |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken Horse Show
- WIS News: SC Bill Moves Forward to Legalize Horse Race Betting
- SC Daily Gazette: Equestrians Call for Senate Action on Horse Race Betting
- Google Search: South Carolina horse race betting
- Post and Courier: Aiken Crestview Farm Cloning
- Wikipedia: Horse Racing
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
