North Carolina online sports betting is set to launch sometime in early-2024. However, it almost certainly won’t go live as early as possible.
The North Carolina Sports Betting Committee announced Tuesday that a launch on Jan. 8, 2024, is extremely unlikely. That’s the first day the industry can legally its digital doors in the Tarheel State.
Too much to do to launch NC online sports betting quickly
The launch of NC online sports betting is a long process. In addition to approving relevant rules, operators must also be approved and testing must be completed.
The committee in charge of setting the framework for North Carolina online sports betting currently meets weekly. At Tuesday’s meeting, one member, Cari Boyce, said a launch on the first possible day could only be possible with daily meetings.
So when will North Carolina online sports betting go live?
No official online sports betting launch date has been set. One of the next important dates for the committee is Monday, Nov. 20, when the North Carolina State Lottery Commission will hold a public hearing at its headquarters in Raleigh. The committee is accepting public comment on North Carolina online sports betting rules through Monday, Nov. 27.
The only 2024 milestone we know about, at this point, is the latest possible launch date. That’s Saturday, June 15, which was spelled out in HB 347, the sports betting legislation passed by Gov. Roy Cooper this past June.
For now, residents can place sports bets in-person at one of three North Carolina tribal casinos. Those close to the border with Virginia can also travel to the Commonwealth, where online sports betting is legal.
Some good news from Tuesday’s meeting
A small silver lining came in the form of a North Carolina sports betting catalog of events, which received initial passage by the committee. There were no surprises here, as bets will be allowed on pro sports, college sports, and Olympic events. North Carolinians will not, however, be able to wager on eSports, awards ceremonies, or political elections.
That catalog must still be approved by the full North Carolina State Lottery Commission. That could happen as soon as Thursday, when the body is set to hold its next meeting.
When NC online sports betting launches, expect a full-court press in the form of North Carolina online sports betting promos from some of the best online sportsbooks. Stay tuned to Winners And Whiners for more information and updates.