Legislative Proposals and Referendum

Senate Bill 761 proposes an amendment to the Maryland Constitution that would authorize online casino gaming and internet bingo, provided voters approve the change. If the measure passes the legislature, the referendum would appear on the November 2026 ballot, allowing residents to decide whether the state should expand gambling to include these online formats. This requirement follows Maryland’s constitutional rule that any significant expansion of commercial gambling must be approved by a public referendum.

Complementing this proposal, Senate Bill 885 establishes the regulatory and operational structure for online gaming if voters give their consent. The bill designates the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission as the primary regulatory authority responsible for licensing, compliance, and oversight. It also specifies that existing casino operators and their approved partners would be eligible to offer online gaming services, ensuring that the expansion builds on Maryland’s current gambling infrastructure rather than introducing entirely new market entrants.

Financial Implications and Revenue Allocation

The proposed legislation includes detailed financial structures for licensing and revenue distribution. Initial license fees are set at $1 million for internet gaming and $500,000 for online bingo. To promote social equity, the bills propose reduced fees for applicants meeting specific minority-owned or social equity criteria, lowering them to $500,000 and $250,000, respectively.

Revenue generated from online gaming would be allocated primarily to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, supporting statewide education initiatives. Additional funds would be directed toward problem gambling services and small business accounts, reflecting a commitment to addressing potential social impacts and fostering economic development.

Public Opinion and Industry Response

Public sentiment toward online casino gaming in Maryland appears cautious. A poll conducted in October 2025 by Lake Research Partners for the National Association Against iGaming indicated that 71% of Maryland voters oppose the legalization of online casinos. This significant opposition suggests that proponents of the legislation may face challenges in garnering public support ahead of the 2026 referendum.

Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. While some view the expansion as an opportunity for growth and increased revenue, others, particularly operators of brick-and-mortar casinos, have raised concerns about potential revenue cannibalization and job losses. The Cordish Companies, a prominent casino operator in Maryland, has been vocal in its opposition, emphasizing the potential negative impact on existing casino operations and employment.

Bonus Rewards

As lawmakers debate the future of online gambling, another factor that often attracts players to digital platforms is the availability of domestic and online casino bonuses. Licensed operators typically offer incentives such as welcome bonuses, deposit matches, free spins, and loyalty rewards to encourage new users to try their platforms and to retain existing players.

These promotions can significantly enhance a player’s starting bankroll and are common in regulated markets where casinos compete for customers. However, experts note that bonuses often come with wagering requirements and other terms that players should review carefully before participating.

Resources that evaluate the reliability and transparency of operators, such as lists of the most trusted online gambling sites, can help players compare bonus offers while ensuring they choose reputable platforms operating under proper regulations.

Regulatory Considerations and Consumer Protections

The proposed bills emphasize the importance of robust regulatory oversight and consumer protection measures. The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission would be tasked with developing and enforcing regulations to ensure fair play, prevent underage gambling, and address problem gambling. This includes implementing measures such as self-exclusion programs, responsible gambling education, and stringent licensing requirements for operators.

Additionally, the legislation proposes allocating a portion of the revenue to fund problem gambling services, underscoring a commitment to mitigating potential social harms associated with expanded gambling access.
Comparative Analysis with Neighboring States

Maryland’s consideration of online casino gaming follows a regional trend, with neighboring states like Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia having already legalized such activities. These states have reported varying degrees of success, with Pennsylvania’s online gaming market generating substantial revenue since its launch. Maryland lawmakers are likely analyzing these models to inform their approach, aiming to balance economic benefits with social responsibility.

However, the experiences of these states also highlight challenges, including regulatory complexities and the need for effective consumer protection measures. Maryland’s legislative proposals appear to incorporate lessons learned from these jurisdictions, emphasizing a cautious and structured rollout contingent upon voter approval.

Potential Economic Impact

Proponents of the legislation argue that legalizing online casino gaming could provide a significant boost to Maryland’s economy. Potential benefits include increased tax revenue, job creation in the tech and customer service sectors, and enhanced funding for education and public services. The allocation of revenue to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund is particularly highlighted as a means to support and improve the state’s educational system.

Conversely, opponents caution that the economic benefits may be offset by potential downsides, such as the cannibalization of revenue from existing casinos and the social costs associated with increased gambling accessibility. These concerns underscore the importance of comprehensive impact assessments and the implementation of measures to mitigate potential negative effects.

Historical Context and Previous Legislative Efforts

Maryland has a history of cautious expansion in the gambling sector. The state legalized sports betting in 2021, with the first retail sportsbooks opening later that year and mobile sports betting launching in 2022. These developments followed voter approval in a 2020 referendum, reflecting a pattern of seeking public endorsement for gambling expansions.

Previous attempts to legalize online casino gaming have faced challenges. In 2024, Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary introduced House Bill 1319, aiming to establish a regulated online gambling system. While the bill passed the House, it stalled in the Senate amid concerns about potential impacts on existing casinos and problem gambling.

Moving Forward

November 2026: Voters will decide on the proposed constitutional amendment to permit online casino gaming and internet bingo.

• Post-Referendum: If approved, the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission will begin implementing the regulatory framework as outlined in Senate Bill 885.
• Industry Preparation: Existing casino operators and potential partners will prepare for the application and licensing process, anticipating market entry.
• Public Engagement: Ongoing public education campaigns and discussions will address concerns, inform voters, and promote responsible gambling practices.

Sources:

CBS NEWS

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