Summary:
- Over 75% of polled voters said they would approve iGaming.
- Senate Bill 267 would allow voters to have their say on the matter.
- Services could launch as early as June 2025 if approved.
Online sports betting was launched in Maryland in 2022 and players have taken to the activity, spending millions on their favorite sports teams via bets.
Efforts are now being made via legislation to give voters a say in allowing online casino gaming services. A recent MDBetting.com poll shows that voters are keen on voting yes for the measure, gaining access to casino slots and table games online.
Pollfish Poll Results are Positive
The specialty poll targeted 1,000 Maryland residents who are registered voters. Various ages, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds were included in the poll. Of those surveyed, 75.84% said they would vote yes for online casino gaming.
Surprisingly, most who voted yes fit into the 24-54 age range. The respondents in the 18-24 age range were 63% in favor. Groups of voters 25-34, 35-44, and 45-54 voted at 80% or higher to allow online casinos in the state. Even those 54 and older approved by more than 71%. Both men and women are in favor, along with all education levels.
It seems players really want to see online casino gaming action added in the state. If the poll is a proper indicator, it could lead to the passage of iGaming if voters are given the option to approve it.
Senate Bill 267
For voters to have a say, Senate Bill 267 must move out of the Budget and Taxation Committee. Both chambers must also approve it. Once that happens, voters can use the 2024 ballot to approve it or say no.
If all goes well, the industry will be up and running by June 2025, and players will have access to services throughout the state. Senator Ron Watson, the measure’s sponsor, indicated that money from the iGaming revenues would go towards Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
The program is an education reform initiative that addresses achievement gaps and improves opportunities for students in early elementary. Watson stated that Maryland is missing a vital component in gaming and its online casino services, the fourth leg of the casino tool.
Watson feels that the online casino industry is the perfect way to create new funding for the program. He is concerned that the program does not have enough backing to support the children of the state.
We will stay tuned into 2024 to see if the measure will gain enough support to make the ballot. In the meantime, supporters know that residents are open to the idea, and the measure has a good chance of passing into law.
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