Read more: Local, GAMBLING BILL, MONOPOLY, POKER RUNS, SOUTH CAROLINA, LEGISLATORS
If you play Monopoly at home with your kids, you're breaking the law. Public hearings are being held around the state this week, in an attempt to update the state's very old gambling laws.
Technically, any game involving cards or dice is illegal in South Carolina, though the law is seldom enforced.
But the state's gaming law also prevents churches and charities from holding raffles or casino nights and many senators say, it's long overdue for change.
In South Carolina, if you're willing to take the chance of playing Monopoly at home, you're rolling the dice that you won't pass go and land in jail for real.
Folks we talked with in Horry County say, innocent games involving cards or dice should not be illegal.
"I think as long as it's not causing a problem with anybody else or they're not causing a problem to anyone else, it shouldn't be a big deal," said Elizabeth Hicks.
"I don't think there's anything wrong with playing Monopoly or games for a nickel and dime at home," said Marla Piscopo.
High profile arrests involving friends playing card games for quarters prompted some state senators to take action.
One proposal would make social gambling on ordinary card and board games legal, as long as the person hosting the game doesn't profit from it.
Another bill would legalize charity raffles, since things like motorcycle poker runs, even those sponsored by local sheriff's departments, are currently against the law.
"It goes on legal or illegal anyhow, so make it legal therefore, everyone could benefit legally," said Fred Portway, another Horry County resident.
Neither bill would allow slot machines, video gambling or wagering on sporting events.
At a time when many states do allow that type of gaming, some local folks say, it's time for South Carolina to change.
"I come from Jersey, where there's legal gambling," said Piscopo.
But there are anti-gambling senators who fear that any change might allow a back door for video poker or other forms of gambling to come in.
That's why all previous attempts to change the law have been shot down.
The public hearings are being held Monday night in North Charleston and next Monday in Greenville.
We'll have an update on those hearings tonight on NewsChannel 15 at 11 and right here at CarolinaLive.com.
