Maryland weighs online casinos to plug $1.5B budget gap—at a cost
Maryland lawmakers are considering a new bill to legalise online casino gaming across the state. Senate Bill 855 aims to expand digital gambling options, including games like blackjack and poker. The move comes as the state faces a projected budget shortfall of $1.5 billion.
Under the proposed legislation, a portion of the revenue from online casinos would fund education and regulatory efforts. Five percent of earnings would go to local education authorities, while another 1% would support problem gambling programmes. An additional 1% would be allocated to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Commission.
The remaining funds would back the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, a long-term education initiative. However, not everyone supports the plan. In Worcester County, home to Ocean Downs Casino, officials have raised concerns. They warn that shifting gambling online could reduce visits to physical casinos, threatening local jobs and funding. Since opening in 2011, Ocean Downs has contributed around $46 million to community projects. Critics argue that legalising digital gaming might weaken this financial support for local initiatives.
If passed, the bill would mark a major change in Maryland's gambling landscape. The state hopes online casinos will generate much-needed revenue amid its budget deficit. Yet, opposition remains strong in areas reliant on existing casino operations.
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