Maryland iGaming Bill Approved by House Committee

Maryland’s House Ways and Means Committee has approved iGaming legislation by a vote of 15-7.

The bill HB1319 seeks to put the matter of online casino gaming in the state to a public vote. If approved by legislators, a referendum would then be held asking voters to permit iGaming.

The bill was first introduced by Maryland Del. Vanessa Atterbeary and will now head to the full House floor where it will be voted on before being passed to the Senate. Maryland’s 2024 legislative session is to run through April 8.

HB1319 Key Points

Maryland iGaming Bill Approved by House Committee
• Six casinos can each partner with up to three iGaming providers
• Four OTBs can launch one iGaming platform each
• Two bingo parlors can launch one iGaming platform each
• Urban One to receive one iGaming license
• Five online casino licenses put up for bidding
• Casinos must share 5% of their online win from first skin with a “social equity applicant partner.”
Maryland iGaming Bill Approved by House Committee Maryland iGaming Bill Approved by House Committee

Senate Opposed

Guzzone currently chairs the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. He has previously ignored iGaming legislation forwarded to the committee. However, Atterbeary hopes that a favorable taxation plan in her bill could see Guzzone change his stance.

I think it’s a different story when things are in front of you and actually on the table and are passed. We made it very clear that our members are interested in doing something for the Blueprint. We’re going to send over what we think is the right thing to do.”

iGaming is currently legal in seven states – Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.

Jenny Tang

An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.