Maryland Online Gambling Laws
While there aren’t any current Maryland casinos available legally for people to play slots, poker, and other table games, there are various other options for gambling here, which makes this state one of the most relaxed and flexible in the country. Unlike other states that outlaw online gambling completely, Maryland continues to modify certain laws and introduce bills to help improve the online casino industry in the state.
In 2020, Maryland online casinos were not legalized, but what was legalized was online sports betting. It allows users to bet real money on the chances of different sports teams winning. This form of online gambling has quickly gained popularity, and many Marylanders are eagerly waiting to see when online casinos will be legalized.
Despite the wait for a Maryland online casino site to finally be made legal, the state still offers its residents options for other forms of gambling. This includes betting on horse races through various websites and participating in Daily Fantasy drafts, which were passed by law in 2012.
How Does Maryland Regulate Gambling?
Currently, the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MSLGCA) regulates gambling in the state. The Director of the Agency is appointed by the Governor of the state. It is responsible for overseeing all aspects of gambling, including licensing and regulating Maryland casinos, horse racing, and charitable gaming.
The agency can also help with responsible gambling resources and to enforce the legal gambling age. While it has been in operation since 1973 helping to regulate lottery winnings, in 2012 it added the task of regulating Maryland in-person casinos and casino gambling to its portfolio.
In addition to in-person casinos, there are also various video lottery facilities throughout the state that are licensed and regulated by the MSLGCA. These facilities offer slot machines, video poker, and other electronic games which, while enjoyable, still need to be highly regulated.
Lastly, the agency also oversees the licensing and regulation of online Fantasy sports, ensuring fair play for all participants. For those who have concerns with sportsbook sites and licensing, there is a separate commission, known as the Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission that oversees applications and approval for sportsbook sites.
If you are looking for sportsbooks that are considered the safest and best in Maryland, be sure to pick only those that the Commission granted official licenses to. This means they can legally operate in the state. If online Maryland casinos are ever legalized, this agency will most likely regulate it.
