NC sweepstakes industry keeps pushing for legality

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina's crippled video sweepstakes industry says it'll keep asking lawmakers and Gov. Pat McCrory to consider legislation to regulate and tax their games despite a gambling scandal in Florida.

The Coalition for Electronic Sweepstakes says the events in Florida involved a small percentage of that state's sweepstakes industry and reinforced why strict regulation is needed.

The North Carolina Supreme Court upheld a ban on the games in December. Many outlets closed, but some said they would try to alter games to remain legal. The coalition said this week sweepstakes parlors and cafes generated thousands of jobs.

Authorities in Florida issued dozens of arrest warrants related to illegal sweepstakes outlets. One of those arrested was an Oklahoma man who gave more than $230,000 to North Carolina political parties and committees.