No Discussion on Online Gambling in Maryland

Topic removed from the agenda for political reasons

The special session on the expansion of gambling in the state of Maryland will not however include internet gambling and e-gaming, according to a decision reached after “numerous discussions,” it was explained by the Speaker’s office.

As Speaker Michael Busch emailed lawmakers advising of the addition to the agenda, a number of legislators opposed the suggestion claiming they did not know enough about the subject to discuss it, and it would take up too much time reserved for debate on other aspects of gambling expansion.

Busch&s chief of staff Kristin F. Jones said that the inclusion of internet gaming was discussed but never elaborated: “After numerous discussions, the House has decided not to include an Internet gaming component in any legislation it advances during the special session.”

However, the main focus of the session will be whether to allow a new casino in Prince George&s County and Las Vegas-style table games at Maryland&s existing slots site with Gov. Martin O&Malley releasing a draft bill.

The Cordish companies, owners of land operations including Maryland Live! originally proposed e-gaming, but opposed the introduction of another land casino in Prince George on grounds that it will impact its market.

So a possible solution was suggested: the additional competition of another land casino would be compensated if licensed land casinos in Maryland were permitted to offer internet gaming. Further development will be followed.