Gov. Henry McMaster has acknowledged that he will veto any attempt to legalize casinos
South Carolina’s chances of approving casino legislation appear finished for the 2026 cycle after Gov. Henry McMaster made his position unmistakably clear. The governor has confirmed he will not support any effort to legalize commercial casinos in the state, regardless of proposed amendments.
The latest setback came when House Bill 4176 was sent back to the House Ways and Means Committee. The bill, which aimed to allow a large casino development along Interstate 95 in a rural area, had already struggled to gain bipartisan traction. Support largely came from Democrats, with limited backing from Republicans.
Committee Chair Bruce Bannister attempted to revive the proposal by adding language that would direct a significant share of casino tax revenue toward conservation programs. Conservation funding has long been a priority of the governor, but the adjustment failed to change his stance.
McMaster reiterated that he has opposed gambling expansion since taking office in 2017 and sees no reason to shift now. He stated that he does not believe casino gambling reflects the wishes of most South Carolinians and confirmed he would veto the bill if it reached his desk.
That firm opposition has effectively halted momentum in the House. One Republican lawmaker even withdrew his support after the governor’s comments, signaling that the bill lacks a viable path forward this session.
Bannister acknowledged that casino legislation cannot advance without executive approval. While he believes a future opportunity may exist, he indicated that serious movement is unlikely until a new governor takes office in 2027, when McMaster’s term ends.
Opposition has also been reinforced by religious and conservative groups across the state. Faith leaders have organized rallies, meetings with lawmakers, and public statements warning about social and moral concerns tied to casino gambling.
For now, casino supporters face a familiar reality in South Carolina. Without backing from the governor and Senate leadership, gambling expansion remains off the table, leaving the issue dormant for at least another year.
