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Maryland’s push to legalize online gambling advances next month with Senate hearings scheduled for March 11. The legislative package from Senator Ron Watson represents the fourth attempt to bring iGaming to the state.
The comprehensive proposal includes three interconnected bills. The first establishes licensing for full internet casino operations, permitting both slots and digital table games. License fees start at $1 million with reduced rates for minority-owned businesses and live-dealer specialists.
A second bill creates a distinct category for skill-based games, specifically addressing online poker. The legislation authorizes the governor to negotiate multistate compacts, enabling Maryland players to compete in shared liquidity pools with other regulated states.
The third bill mandates voter approval through a November 2026 referendum. This constitutional requirement has complicated previous expansion efforts, adding time and uncertainty to the legislative process.
Lawmakers will also consider enhanced enforcement against sweepstakes casinos. The proposed legislation defines these operations as illegal gambling, targeting platforms using virtual currencies redeemable for cash prizes. The bill provides civil and criminal penalties along with forfeiture provisions.
Previous iGaming bills failed amid opposition from labor groups concerned about land-based casino employment and operators worried about revenue cannibalization. Current proposals attempt to address these concerns through workforce transition funds and mandatory economic impact reporting.
The Senate passed sweepstakes enforcement legislation last year, suggesting potential momentum for this session’s combined approach to expansion and enforcement.
