Maryland to Have Another Look at Online Gambling Legalization

Previously, Maryland had one of the most hostile policies towards all forms of online gambling. However, according to some source that could soon be a thing of the past as the state lawmakers could radically update American gambling laws applicable in their state.

Maryland is scheduled to host a special gambling expansion session for lawmakers to have another look at the issue of online casinos in United States. If a move towards legalization does occur, it would be a revolutionary turn of events.

Earlier this year, Maryland prosecuted online gambling brand Bodog, seizing its domain and even indicting founder and CEO Calvin Ayre as well as three company execs. Last year, the state was after payment processors connected to BetEd.

The sudden change of heart was indicated by the House Speaker Michael Busch. He let the lawmakers know that once they gather for a special session this Thursday, they would consider the possibility of opening up online gambling in the state of Maryland. Such a move is seen as a critical one to stay in competition with neighboring states.

On top of regulating and licensing online gambling, the lawmakers will discuss the consequences of legalizing table games in the state and opening a new case site in Prince George’s County.

United States gambling news quote the Speaker: "Since the voters overwhelmingly approved the establishment of a Maryland gaming program in 2008, every surrounding state with a gaming program has expanded to include table games and, in some cases, other forms of gambling."

He went on to write: "In order to maintain a healthy and competitive gaming program that attracts players from beyond Maryland's borders and keeps Maryland gamers at home, we must put our gaming program on par with other jurisdictions in the Mid-Atlantic."

According to Busch the end-goal of the special legislative session must be to create new revenue streams for the state in order to pay for education and eliminate the state's structural deficit, which is currently estimated at around a half a billion dollars.

Naturally, if gambling expansion in Maryland is to be approved by lawmakers, it would still require residents’ approval in a November vote.