Maryland Sports Betting Bill Prefiled in Annapolis Capital, to Be Taken Up Before Voters
In the wake of the upcoming state legislature’s 2020 session, a Maryland sports betting bill is prefiled in the Annapolis capital. In the scenario of the bill being passed, the issue is likely to be taken up before the voters for the yet to take place election in November 2020.
In order to change the Maryland Constitution, a ballot referendum needs just a majority of voters’ backing. And, if the question in consideration gets the much-needed support, sports betting will thus be legalized in Maryland “on the 30th day following the official canvass of votes for the referendum.”
Termed as Senate Bill 58, the bill was presented by State Sen. Chris West hailing from R-Baltimore County. The bill will permit the state’s casino and horse pari-mutuel racetracks to run sports gambling only if the Maryland voters permit the betting activity in the state. And, the ensuing tax proceeds arising from sports gambling will be used for funding public education programs.
Presently, Maryland has six casinos out of which three provide maximum gaming profit, and the remaining three smaller casinos operate slots and tables. The three major casinos include Maryland Live!, Horseshoe Baltimore, and MGM National Harbor. And the three small casino venues include Rocky Gap Resort, Ocean Downs, and Hollywood Perryville.
Maryland Live has emerged as one of the biggest casinos in Maryland as far as total slot machines and tables games are considered. It has already arrived at an agreement with a leading sports betting operator.
Meanwhile, the Cordish Companies has earlier declared that Fan Duel will offer its casinos with necessary sports betting services. The partnership will be applicable to Maryland Live in case if sports gambling attains legal status.
