Maryland Lawmaker Introduces Online Casino Bill

State Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary has submitted legislation that seeks to legalize online casinos throughout the state.

Delegate Atterbeary emphasized the potential economic benefits of legalizing online casinos, including job creation and increased revenue streams for state programs.

“We’ve seen other states significantly boost their economies with online gaming. This legislation will bring Maryland into the future while providing critical funding for education and other essential services.”

She went on to add that experts project that online casinos could generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually for Maryland, with a portion of this revenue earmarked for the state’s Education Trust Fund.

Key Provisions of House Bill 17

• Licensing Requirements: Only existing land-based casino operators and their approved partners would be eligible to apply for online gaming licenses.
• Taxation: A proposed tax rate of 15% on gross gaming revenue, with proceeds directed to public initiatives.
Maryland Lawmaker Introduces Online Casino Bill Mandatory safeguards to prevent underage gambling and address problem gambling, including self-exclusion programs and spending limits. Maryland Lawmaker Introduces Online Casino Bill Cybersecurity measures to ensure the safety of users’ personal and financial data.

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Labor unions representing casino workers also voiced strong opposition. Testifying during committee hearings, union members argued that the expansion of online gambling posed a direct threat to employment in Maryland’s existing casinos.

Next Steps

The bill is expected to undergo its first committee hearing in the coming weeks, where lawmakers will debate its provisions and address public concerns. If it advances, Maryland voters may have the final say on the measure through a statewide referendum, as required for any expansion of gambling in the state.

Olivia Richardson

Maryland Lawmaker Introduces Online Casino Bill