Sports Betting in Maryland: Everything You Need to Know
Legal Status of Sports Betting in Maryland
Sports betting is fully legal and operational in the state of Maryland. The journey toward legalization began in 2020 when voters approved a ballot measure allowing sports wagering. Following that, the Maryland General Assembly passed legislation in 2021 to regulate the industry. The law permits both in-person and online sports betting, making Maryland one of the most flexible jurisdictions on the East Coast when it comes to wagering options.
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC) oversees all sports betting activities, ensuring that operators comply with state regulations and consumer protections.
Launch Timeline and Market Development
Retail sports betting officially launched in December 2021 with the opening of in-person sportsbooks at casinos like MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino & Hotel, and Horseshoe Casino Baltimore. Online sports betting followed in November 2022, offering a broad range of options for residents and visitors alike.
The state issued over 20 licenses for mobile sportsbooks, allowing major players such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and PointsBet to enter the Maryland market. Local operators and minority-owned businesses were also granted opportunities to participate, with special emphasis on inclusion and diversity.
How to Bet on Sports in Maryland
Residents and visitors aged 21 and older can place bets both online and at retail locations. Online betting is accessible via mobile apps or websites, provided the bettor is physically located within Maryland’s state borders at the time of the wager. Geolocation technology ensures compliance with this requirement.
Popular sports available for betting include NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA (with restrictions on prop bets), soccer, golf, tennis, and more. Wagering types include point spreads, moneylines, over/unders, parlays, teasers, futures, and live in-game betting.
Taxes and Revenue Allocation
Maryland applies a 15% tax rate on gross sports betting revenue. The funds generated from sports betting are directed primarily toward the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, which supports public education throughout the state. This funding model has made sports betting a key contributor to Maryland’s educational initiatives.
In its first full year of online operations, Maryland’s sports betting industry generated hundreds of millions in handle and tens of millions in revenue, contributing significantly to the state budget.
Responsible Gambling and Player Protection
The state takes responsible gambling seriously, requiring all licensed operators to offer self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and access to problem gambling resources. The Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling provides 24/7 support and treatment referrals for individuals in need.
In addition, the MLGCC actively monitors operator compliance to prevent fraud, underage betting, and match-fixing.
Future Outlook for Sports Betting in Maryland
The sports betting landscape in Maryland is expected to grow further in the coming years. With increased competition among online operators, bettors can expect more promotional offers, enhanced betting features, and improved user experiences.
Moreover, discussions continue around expanding betting to include more markets, such as eSports and international competitions, depending on regulatory developments.
Conclusion
Maryland has established itself as a dynamic and competitive market for sports betting, offering a safe, legal, and accessible environment for all eligible bettors. With a strong regulatory framework, a commitment to responsible gambling, and significant contributions to public education, Maryland’s sports betting industry stands as a model for other states to follow.
