Rep. Jason Saine, a chief House budget writer who has served more than six terms, is resigning his seat.
The NC Tribune was first to report Saine’s resignation. Saine told WRAL his resignation will become effective on Aug. 12.
Saine was the force behind expanded gambling in the state. He worked for years to legalize online sports betting in North Carolina, which started on March 11 this year.
The Lincoln County Republican was appointed to the House in 2011 to fill an unexpired term. He filed to run for reelection this year, and was unopposed. To fill the seat, Gov. Roy Cooper will appoint the replacement the Lincoln County Republican Party executive committee chooses.

