Maryland Legislators Consider Online Casino Legalization

Maryland lawmakers have begun discussing a new bill that would legalize online casinos. 

If approved, licensed operators would be able to offer digital slot machines, table games and live dealer games alongside the state’s existing retail casino and sports betting options.

Numerous commercial casino operations and a statewide mobile sports betting market characterize Maryland's existing gambling landscape. 

While online casino gaming remains illegal in Maryland, advocates argue that it will provide an additional major revenue source for Maryland via taxes and modernize the way Maryland conducts gambling.

Digital Revolution For Maryland?

Online casinos will offer a variety of games, including online slots, blackjack and roulette, and allow customers to participate in live dealer games via video feeds. 

The Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency is expected to oversee these online casinos, in addition to its current oversight of retail casinos and sports wagering within Maryland.

The specifics of the proposal are still being negotiated by lawmakers, including the tax rate on digital gaming revenue and the licensing of digital gaming operators. 

Still, the basic framework of the legislation creates eligibility for existing casino operators to operate online while putting in place consumer protection strategies, crafted to assist players in playing responsibly.

Tax Benefits Vs Social Concern

Proponents of online casino gaming advocate for Maryland to follow in the footsteps of other jurisdictions, like New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan that have previously legalized online casino gaming and receive hundreds of millions of dollars annually from tax revenues.

This bill has drawn criticism from both legislators and advocacy groups in spite of its potential benefit to the state, because the availability of gambling on the internet increases the number of opportunities for people to become problem gamblers and access gambling in general.

According to some critics, online casinos will reduce the number of people visiting land-based casinos, which can ultimately affect casino revenue and jobs. 

Some lawmakers are also concerned that the market for gambling in the state may be too large because of some of the other proposed forms of gambling, such as the use of racing machines at off-track betting sites.

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Referendum On The Cards

Nearby states have legalized online casino gambling, providing ongoing competition for Maryland's ability to be competitive in the regional gaming marketplace. 

Additionally, other established gaming companies that currently operate land-based casinos in Maryland, such as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment, would be inclined to develop their online gaming platforms if it were to be legalized in Maryland.

The proposal has to go through committee hearings and be approved by both chambers of the Maryland legislature before reaching the governor. 

It may also need to be approved by Maryland voters via a statewide referendum due to constitutional requirements. 

State lawmakers are currently considering the potential tax revenue versus social impacts and regulatory readiness.