The Maryland state has made a name for itself as a state that is friendly to sports betting. In fact, it was one of only three states that were already operating full sportsbooks before the Supreme Court decision in May that allowed more states to open up their own sportsbooks. Learn more about it below.
Does Maryland have legal sports betting?
Yes, the state of Maryland does have legal sports betting. It’s one of just a handful of states that have legalized sports betting and has been doing so since 2013.
The state first legalized online poker back in 2008, leading to the legalization of online casino games in 2011. Finally, in 2012, Governor Martin O’Malley signed into law legislation that allowed for the expansion of online gambling in the state. The only restriction is that the Maryland Lottery Commission must approve each game before offering it to players.
Since then, several changes have been made to how online gambling works in Maryland. For example, players who want to play any real money casino game can do so without ever registering an account at an online casino site or downloading any software onto their computer.
What’s the Future of Online Gambling?
Due to the federal ban on sports betting, there are no places to place bets in Maryland. However, that may change with new legislation proposed by Senate President Mike Miller.
Miller has introduced a bill that would allow casino gambling at six locations across the state. Those sites would be allowed to offer sports betting and other forms of gambling.
The bill would also make it legal for online gambling operators to offer their services in Maryland as long as they pay a licensing fee and abide by all local laws.
The senator introduced similar legislation last year, but it failed to gain traction in the General Assembly.
Where can I place bets in the state?
In Maryland, you can place bets on sports at three different locations. The State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency offer a pair of brick-and-mortar casinos and online betting.
Maryland Live Casino
This casino is located in Anne Arundel County on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. This resort features over 2,600 slot machines, more than 100 table games, a poker room, and live music performances. The casino also includes a spa, wedding chapel, and concert venue for special events.
MD sports betting offers several types of sports wagering options:
Bettor’s Advantage Card
As part of its customer rewards program, Maryland Live offers a free card that discounts food and beverage purchases at the casino’s restaurants and bars. This card also entitles players to exclusive player points redeemed for cash back or comps (free stuff).
Sportsbook
If you’re looking to bet on sports while visiting this casino, head over to their sportsbook in the main lobby area. Here you’ll find dozens of TVs broadcasting live sporting events throughout the day and night — including horse racing and greyhound racing from around the country.
When will online sports betting started in Maryland?
The answer to that question is complicated. The state has passed a law legalizing sports betting at casinos and horse racing tracks but has yet to create regulations for the industry.
