A Statehouse bill proposing a casino along the Interstate 95 corridor appears dead on arrival, despite early optimism that it could pass. The bill failed to gain the support of Gov. Henry McMaster, even after a proposed compromise that would have directed a sizable share of casino revenues toward conservation efforts in South Carolina.
McMaster rejected the compromise, saying he opposes casino gambling and will continue to do so, according to The Post and Courier.
The proposed casino site would be located in Orangeburg County, one of the most impoverished areas in South Carolina’s rural interior, where job prospects are limited and tax revenues are low. The targeted site is owned by Wallace Cheves, a Republican donor and experienced casino developer.
The property currently houses a dilapidated outlet mall in Santee, near the recreational lands surrounding Lake Marion.
