Concerns abound in North Carolina after it came to light that eight lawmakers accepted contributions totaling $34,400 from donors with links to a casino company. Lawmakers in the state are currently considering legislation that would allow for the development of commercial casinos.

could give the casino company an unfair advantage

The donations in question came from at least four donors that have a connection to The Cordish Companies. Critics believe that these contributions could give the casino company an unfair advantage when deciding who can develop casinos.

Despite the concerns, accepting campaign donations from out-of-state donors that have economic interests in possible legislation is not illegal.

The Cordish Companies has already been making moves to establish itself in the state if lawmakers give the green light. It has close links to NC Development Holdings, which has requested the rezoning of land in Rockingham County to allow for certain commercial uses on the site.

Senate Leader Phil Berger, whose home jurisdiction is Rockingham County, said recently that the chances are “better than 50/50” of a gambling expansion bill gaining passage this session.