Summary:
- Legislation in the works for Maryland iGaming in 2024.
- Opposing lawmakers fear more problems with gambling addiction.
- Proponents see new funds for education needs and state revenues.
Sports betting is big business in Maryland. The state has seen great growth in a short time, which has led to the discussion of online casino gaming. Sportsbooks have increased to 12 in the mobile sector, with ten retail sportsbooks in the state. Lawmakers should have passed online casino legislation during the last sessions. Now, members of Congress are working on a new bill for 2024.
Opposition Fears Higher Gambling Addiction Rates
Some members of the legislature are against the addition of iGaming as it is too easy to lose money and would promote more problems with gambling. Organizations opposed to the activity include the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling and the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.
These groups say that when people have access to casino games like blackjack and roulette anywhere an internet connection is offered, it increases the prevalence of problem gambling. Addiction rates rise, and individuals pay the price.
Proponents See New Revenue Streams
Conversely, those for online casino gaming feel it will create a new and steady funding source for the state. Online casinos could bring money to education needs and increase state revenues. Maryland could be a part of multi-jurisdictional gaming and allow players from multiple states to play, which increases overall funds.
The new market would allow the state to bring funds from apps and electronic payment methods. The industry would provide seamless services and resources for gambling addiction as needed.
The Lottery and Gaming Control Agency is supposed to submit a new report by November that compares online casino gaming in other states. It will also focus on a legal market in Maryland and how it would impact problem gambling.
Gambling Addiction Services
Those suffering from gambling addiction have stated that Maryland lawmakers need to create a fund to tackle the problem of gambling if iGaming is legalized. Maryland currently has a fund that pays for a helpline, open 24-7. There is also an outreach program that offers voluntary exclusion from gaming, treatment for gambling addiction, and prevention programs.
Lawmakers have previously removed priority funding for gambling addiction, so those opposed fear the same issue is at play. Last session, lawmakers avoided a 1% contribution from state proceeds from sports betting for the problem gambling fund. The money would have been removed from education reform to assist with gambling addiction needs.
We shall see how the state proceeds going into 2024 and if online gambling legislation has any shot at passing into law.
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