Online football wagering soft-launched in Maryland Nov. 21, 2022 after Maryland residents voted to legalize sports betting in the state during a referendum vote held in November, 2020.
The first wagers happened just more than a year later on Dec. 9, 2021 at a retail BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM National Harbor – came to fruition months after Gov. Larry Hogan signed a bill into law legalizing sports betting in the state. Later, BetMGM was fined for jumping the gun and allowing wagers slightly before the actual live date.
Sports betting is expected to officially launch in the state later in 2021 following the development of regulations and licensing procedures.
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Maryland. A referendum was held in November, 2020 asking Maryland residents if they wanted sport betting legalized in the state. After the result was overwhelmingly yes, the Maryland law makers began developing legislation to formally legalize sports betting in the state.
Legislation was signed by Gov. Hogan in May, 2020 which officially legalized sports betting in the state.
Where can I bet at Maryland sportsbooks?
Retail books opened in late 2021 at BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino and Hotel and Horseshoe Casino, Ocean Downs Casino (with a TwinSpires Sportsbook) and Hollywood Casino (which opened its sportsbook on Dec. 23, 2021).
Although sports betting has been legalized in the state the industry has not yet launched as regulations and licensing procedures need to be developed and approved. Under the current proposed regulations sports betting licenses could be granted to casinos, the state’s professional sports franchises and horse racing tracks. Regulations would also allow retail betting at select entities and locations in the state. Expect FanDuel and DraftKings to lead the charge here as leaders.
Earlier, Bill S 4 had recommended that legalized sports betting be conducted at four of the state’s six casinos, three of their five racetracks and potentially the Washington Football Team’s stadium and practice facility.
This bill, however, never made it through the legislative session; so following approval at a voter referendum in November, the House and Senate will need to each reintroduce new bills. S 4 is a good foundation to build upon, but the final result could be somewhat different.
What about mobile sports betting apps in Maryland?
Regulations allow for the issuing of mobile sports betting licenses in the state. It is expected there will be up to 60 mobile sports betting licenses issued in the state, leading to a healthy and large mobile sports betting industry.
