No, sports gambling is not legal in South Carolina as of 2024. The state maintains strict laws against most forms of gambling, including sports betting, both in-person and online.

Currently, South Carolina prohibits nearly all forms of gambling under Section 16-19-10 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. The only exceptions are the state lottery and specific charitable gaming activities like bingo and raffles.

Several attempts have been made to legalize sports betting in South Carolina. The most recent effort was House Bill 5277, introduced in 2022, which aimed to legalize mobile sports betting. However, this bill did not pass.

For South Carolina residents looking to bet on sports legally, the nearest options are:

Traveling to Tennessee for mobile sports betting
Visiting North Carolina's tribal casinos
Going to other states where sports betting is legal

The penalties for illegal gambling in South Carolina can be severe:

First offense: Up to $500 fine and/or 12 months in jail
Subsequent offenses: Up to $1,000 fine and/or 2 years in prison
Operating an illegal gambling establishment: Felony charges

There is growing support for legalizing sports betting in South Carolina. Proponents argue it could generate significant tax revenue and create jobs. A 2023 survey showed that 54% of South Carolina residents support legal sports betting.

Looking ahead, new legislation may be introduced in future sessions, but for now, all forms of sports betting remain illegal in South Carolina. Residents should be aware that using offshore betting sites or illegal bookmakers carries legal risks and offers no consumer protections.

For the most current information on gambling laws, I recommend consulting with legal professionals or monitoring the South Carolina Legislature's website for updates on pending legislation.

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