Online Gaming Could Fund Maryland’s Educational Future

Right now, in Maryland, online gaming is prohibited. But, the new bill, SB0267, proposes increasing gambling options in the state with proceeds allocated to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund. If passed, businesses could apply for online gaming permits costing $500,000 and lasting five years; 85% of income would go to licensed organisations, while 15% would be earmarked to fund public education reform. 

The Comptroller’s Office estimates that the revenue generated from gambling could reach $97 million by 2028, raising questions about potential gambling addiction and lost money in Maryland. 

Tweaks to the law for seniors 

Alongside SB0267, supporters of the bills are proposing to tweak existing gambling laws, such as allowing St. Mary’s County senior centres to host games with entry fees not exceeding $50 and leftover prize money funding programming at the centre. 

Sen. Ron Watson supports SB0267, D-Prince George’s and Senate Majority Leader Nancy J. King, D-Montgomery, pushing to get the legislation heard and approved, aiming to generate more funds through gambling building upon the options that have been approved recently by the general assembly. 

Recent approvals have seen a legalisation of sports betting that began in November. While table gambling is already legal on the premises of Maryland’s casinos, SB0267 will create a new avenue for gambling that won’t require onsite gambling, and supporters expect it to bring in more funds for public education reform. 

Gambling losses exceed $23 billion

However, gambling opponents suggest that gambling losses since 2010 have already exceeded $23 billion and are wary of the potential gambling addiction that could arise due to SB0267 and ask for additional funding to be made available for addiction counselling. 

Not everyone is in favour of the expansion of gambling; it will be up to the general assembly to decide if SB0267 passes and whether people can legally enact online gambling in Maryland. Stop Predatory Gambling & Campaign for Gambling-Free Kids oppose the bill, calling the Maryland Senate to reject the expansion to online gambling. 

Reformers quickly reminded the doubters that they could raise more funds for public education reform by introducing online gambling. But opponents are concerned about gambling addiction and gambling losses in Maryland. For some, the blueprint feels like a sticking plaster over a gaping wound that is public education. 

No news is good news

At this point, it’s unclear whether online gambling will be allowed or how much income and tax revenue it could bring to the state. The Senate is now considering the bill; its progress will be documented in the coming weeks, but there are many hills to climb before the final vote scheduled for November 2024. So, for now, it remains to be seen how Maryland’s gambling opportunities may increase and whether gambling income can help fund its educational future.