Betting on Coaches: NC Lawmakers Look to Sports Gambling Revenue for Pay Boost

​On March 25, 2025, North Carolina Senators Johnson, Settle, and Chitlik introduced Senate Bill 657, titled the “Keeping Our Coaches Act,” during the 2025-2026 legislative session. This proposed legislation aims to address the retention and support of athletic coaches within the state’s educational institutions.​

While the full text of the bill has not yet been made publicly available, the act’s title suggests a focus on initiatives designed to retain coaches in schools. This could involve measures such as providing additional resources, enhancing training programs, or offering financial incentives to encourage coaches to continue their roles within North Carolina’s school systems.​

If passed, it would allocate $11 million annually from sports gambling tax revenue to supplement coaches’ salaries at public schools. The legislation aims to ensure that each coach receives at least a $3,000 salary supplement without replacing local funding. Any remaining funds would support youth sports through the North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs.

The introduction of this bill reflects a growing recognition of the vital role that coaches play in student development and the overall educational experience. By focusing on coach retention, the legislation may seek to ensure that students benefit from consistent mentorship and high-quality athletic programs.​

As the legislative process progresses, further details and discussions will shed light on the specific provisions and potential impact of the “Keeping Our Coaches Act.” Stakeholders, including educators, coaches, parents, and students, will likely have opportunities to engage with policymakers to express their perspectives and insights regarding this initiative.​