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United Kingdom
Summary:
- Senator Ron Watson has introduced a bill to legalize online casino games like blackjack and poker in Maryland.
- Supporters say iGaming could help address the state’s $1.5 billion budget deficit and fund education.
- Worcester County officials and Ocean Downs Casino oppose the plan, warning it could hurt local jobs and tourism.
A new proposal in Maryland could bring blackjack, poker, and other casino table games to people’s phones and computers.
For the third year in a row, Senator Ron Watson has introduced legislation that would legalize internet gaming, often referred to as iGaming. The idea is to allow people in Maryland to play casino-style games online rather than only at physical casinos.
The Democrat from Prince George’s County believes the state needs to start thinking differently about where it finds new revenue.
“We just keep kicking the can down the road“, said Watson.
He argues that Maryland is falling behind neighboring states that are already moving toward online gaming, with Delaware already allowing it, and Virginia soon to follow.
According to Watson, expanding gambling online could help Maryland address its projected $1.5 billion budget deficit.
Under the proposal, revenue from online gaming would be split across several programs. Watson said 1% would go toward problem gambling programs, and another 1% would support Maryland’s Lottery and Gaming Commission.
Similarly, 5% would go to local education authorities, while the remaining funds would help support the state’s Blueprint for Education initiative.
Local Officials Say “No”
In Worcester County, where Ocean Downs Casino operates, local officials are pushing back against the plan. Casino leaders say shifting gambling online could reduce visits to physical casinos and put jobs at risk.
Bobbi Jones, General Manager of Ocean Downs Casino, shared the casino’s concerns:
Maryland’s gaming industry was built to support jobs, tourism, and local communities. iGaming shifts gambling to phones and living rooms while putting those jobs and community investments at risk. That’s not the direction Maryland should take.
County leaders have backed the casino’s position. The Worcester County Commissioners unanimously sent a letter to lawmakers in Annapolis expressing their opposition to the proposal.
Watson argues that online gaming does not necessarily hurt traditional casinos, pointing to Pennsylvania, where iGaming has increased overall gaming revenue by roughly 10%.
The Senate Bill 0885, has passed its first reading and has been sent to the Budget and Taxation Committee for further review. It still faces a long legislative process before it can reach Governor Wes Moore.
If approved, the law would take effect on July 1, 2026.
