Bill > HB1418

This bill aims to clarify and strengthen Maryland's laws regarding online gambling by explicitly prohibiting online gambling and betting activities in the state, with two specific exceptions: activities provided under certain subtitles of the State Government Article or those authorized under the Criminal Law Article. The bill requires the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to have the final determination on whether a gaming device is legal and being operated lawfully. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Commission submit a comprehensive report to legislative committees by January 1, 2026, detailing the extent of illegal online gaming in Maryland, including the number of accessible platforms, the volume of illegal wagers, marketing strategies of illegal operators, methods of access, and potential actions to block and enforce against these platforms. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and empowers local law enforcement and state agencies to strictly construe gambling laws to prevent prohibited activities, with the Department of State Police available to enforce the law if local units fail to do so promptly.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1418?ys=2025RS