- Patten Watson
The Aiken Standard: Letter: S.C. should allow equine wagers
Many South Carolinians already place wagers on sports and other events through unregulated apps and websites. These practices expose Palmetto State residents to potential threats, including the possibly having their financial and personal information compromised.
It is common sense to pass the S.C. Equine Advancement Act which, in part, addresses these issues by regulating what is now a black-market industry. If passed, the legislation would allow the state to grant licenses to and regulate up to three carefully screened gaming providers. Providers would only be allowed to offer gaming opportunities on equine events.
Protecting South Carolinians from bad actors should be a top priority for government. Creating and enforcing guardrails around the gaming industry to prevent malicious activity is a win for everyone.
Patten Watson
Columbia