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Keeping Our Coaches Act

IntroducedEric Ager (D)House2025–2026 Session
AI Generated

This bill directs $11 million annually from sports betting tax revenue to the Department of Public Instruction to provide salary supplements to public school athletic coaches, ensuring each eligible coach receives at least $3,000 total in state and non-state funds. Schools that previously provided non-state funds for coach supplements must continue doing so, and any unused funds go to support youth sports programming through the North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs.

Arguments in Favor

Supporters argue this bill addresses coach compensation challenges by guaranteeing a baseline salary supplement of $3,000, which can help recruit and retain quality coaches in public schools. They contend that using sports betting revenue for this purpose creates a dedicated funding stream without raising taxes, and that better-compensated coaches improve athletic programs and student experiences. The bill also encourages schools to maintain their existing financial commitments to coaching salaries.

Arguments Against

Opponents may argue that $11 million may be insufficient to meaningfully impact coach compensation across all public schools statewide, or that the money would be better directed to other educational priorities like classroom instruction. Some may question whether relying on sports betting revenue for essential school programs is sustainable or appropriate, and express concerns about schools potentially reducing non-state funding contributions while depending on the state allocation.

AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.

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