North Carolina voters draw a clear line between regulated sportsbooks and prediction markets. A new Meredith College poll found broad acceptance of legal sports betting, while nearly two thirds supported a ban on platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket.
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Only 24% wanted prediction markets to remain legal in North Carolina. However, low public awareness may influence that result. Just 15% described themselves as very familiar with the products, while 38% reported some familiarity.
The poll creates an awkward contrast with the new state policy. Governor Josh Stein signed a $34 billion budget on July 7 that allows federally regulated prediction market operators to serve North Carolina customers. A 6% tax on net trading fee revenue begins on January 1, 2027.
North Carolina launched legal mobile sports betting in March 2024. In the Meredith Poll, 51% said they were satisfied with current regulation, compared with 11% who were dissatisfied. Another 38% gave no firm opinion.
The new budget raises the sportsbook tax from 18% to 23%. Prediction markets will pay a lower rate, although the taxes apply to different revenue measures. Sportsbooks pay tax on gross wagering revenue, while event contract platforms pay 6% on net trading fees.
Several sportsbook groups now offer separate prediction market products in North Carolina. The budget recognizes platforms regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission rather than creating a separate state licensing system.
Voters also raised concerns about betting harm. About 58% worried about illegal wagering by minors, while half expressed concern about effects on college athletes.
Meredith Poll director David McLennan said voters appear to judge sports betting differently depending on who participates and who may face harm.
Meredith College surveyed 1,022 registered voters from July 1 through July 8. The poll reported a credibility interval of plus or minus three percentage points.