North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to sign a sports betting bill that passed the General Assembly, meaning by this time next year, mobile gambling on sports could be a reality…

Sports venues in the Charlotte area, which will be allowed to have in-person sportsbooks, are reacting to the legislation that’s heading to Cooper’s desk.

“We appreciate the tireless efforts of members of the NC House and Senate and are grateful for their support,” a statement from Tepper Sports and Entertainment said. “This will offer a great entertainment option for fans.”

The Panthers, owned by David Tepper, signed a deal with Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos in 2019, when lawmakers first proposed legalizing sports betting in North Carolina.