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Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters Thursday that Republicans are working on legislation that would allow for casinos in Nash, Rockingham and Anson counties.

When asked to evaluate the chances that legislation allowing some combination of new gambling would reach Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper's desk this summer within or separate from a budget agreement, Phil Berger replied: “I’d say better than 50-50."

The Democratic governor held a bill-signing ceremony Wednesday at Spectrum Center, home to the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. It could house one of several anticipated sportsbooks allowed at or near professional sports venues as part of the law.

The Republican-controlled General Assembly gave final approval to the legislation on Wednesday with a House vote. The Senate OK'd the measure last week. Cooper is expected to sign the measure, which would offer betting on professional, college and Olympic-style sports to adults starting in the next six to 12 months.

The state Senate voted 38-11 Wednesday to legalize online sports betting and betting on horse races in North Carolina and took a final vote Thursday.

Legislation to authorize and regulate sports gambling in North Carolina that passed the House earlier this spring has been altered by the Senate.

State lawmakers are expected to legalize online sports betting this year. But it’s not the only change they’re considering making to gambling laws.

A House lawmaker who shepherded the two betting bills said the idea is still alive because one of the measures passed by a one-vote margin. But the General Assembly work session is likely to end late next week, leaving little time for retooling the legislation.

This legislative maneuvering reflects the unusual nature of the gambling issue in a Republican-controlled General Assembly where social conservatives still carry great weight. These measures would authorize professional and college sports wagering. The bills could reach the House floor later this week.

The Senate voted Thursday for a measure that would direct the state lottery commission to issue between 10 and 12 licenses to entities that can offer online and in-person betting on pro, college and Olympic-style sports.