Bill to kill Maryland sports betting filed
Emerging Trends in Sports Betting Legislation: A Look at Recent Developments
In recent months, a notable trend in sports betting legislation has emerged: an increasing number of lawmakers are advocating for the closure of existing legal markets. This development raises questions about the future of sports betting in various states, particularly as stakeholders grapple with complex regulations and societal implications.
On February 20, a bill aimed at terminating Maryland’s legal sports betting market was introduced by Senator Joanne Benson, a significant move reflecting evolving legislative perspectives. This proposal, designated as SB 1033, threatens to dismantle the online sports betting ecosystem that Maryland established just recently, with state officials having legalized retail sports betting in December 2021 and digital platforms following suit in November 2022.
As of January 2025, sports betting in Maryland has generated impressive figures, with a staggering $12.2 billion (£9.6 billion/€11.7 billion) wagered across various platforms. This robust activity resulted in approximately $143.2 million in state tax revenue and reported gross gaming revenue of $1.4 billion. Notably, between October and November 2022, the launch of mobile wagering propelled the betting handle from $39.7 million to an astonishing $219 million, highlighting the market’s dynamic growth.
Gambling Expansion: Prospects and Challenges
The current legislative session in Maryland is not solely focused on restricting access to sports betting. Lawmakers are concurrently examining opportunities for gambling expansion, including the potential introduction of interactive casino platforms (iCasino). Legislative committees have begun reviewing proposals that would permit historical horse racing machines at select sportsbooks, broadening the market’s offerings.
However, the path to gambling expansion appears fraught with challenges. Many stakeholders within the land-based casino industry are expressing concerns that introducing iCasino would threaten their existing business models. Furthermore, advocates for responsible gambling caution against the potential increase in gambling addiction that could accompany the legalization of iCasino operations.
Given that SB 1033 was introduced after the February 3 filing deadline, it faces a significant hurdle in progressing through the legislative process. Bills introduced post-deadline are relegated to the rules committee, and those filed during this session will not be carried over into the 2026 legislative cycle. This procedural barrier suggests that halting Maryland’s legal sports betting market may not be imminent this session.
In overview, the landscape of sports betting legislation is evolving, presenting a blend of opportunities and challenges. As states continue to navigate the complexities of legal gambling, it is vital for stakeholders to remain engaged in advocacy and dialogue, ensuring that regulations reflect both market dynamics and responsible gambling practices.
