Legislation that would bring the first commercial casino to South Carolina is gaining momentum at the State House. Known as the “I-95 Economic and Education Stimulus Act” (House Bill 4176), the proposal is moving toward a full floor debate with a new strategy aimed at swaying skeptical lawmakers: tying gambling profits directly to land preservation and veterans’ welfare.
The bill targets economically distressed “Tier IV” counties along the I-95 corridor—specifically Orangeburg, Marlboro, and Dillon—as the only eligible sites for the state’s first gaming resort. Proponents argue that a high-end casino could transform these rural areas by creating over 1,000 jobs and generating millions in recurring revenue.
A New Formula for Revenue Distribution
A key driver of the bill’s recent progress is an amendment creating a structured “pot” for tax revenues, ensuring that the proceeds from a 15% tax on gaming revenue are diverted to high-priority state interests rather than just the general fund.
Proposed Tax Revenue Breakdown:
| Recipient | Percentage of Revenue | Primary Purpose |
| S.C. Conservation Bank | 35% | Protecting working farmlands and state forests. |
| Veterans’ Trust Fund | 30% | Funding healthcare and support services for veterans. |
| State General Fund | 26% | General state operations and education. |
| Local Counties | 9% | Infrastructure and local government support. |
Supporters believe this distribution model, particularly the significant 35% stake for conservation, will appeal to rural legislators who prioritize environmental protection over gambling expansion.
The Debate: Economic Spark vs. Social Cost
The push for a casino—most notably a $1 billion resort pitched for Santee—is built on the argument that South Carolina is currently “leaking” revenue to neighboring states like North Carolina, where sports betting and tribal casinos are already established…