summary
Introduced
02/12/2026
02/12/2026
In Committee
02/12/2026
02/12/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Providing that the General Assembly may authorize, by law, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to issue certain Internet gaming licenses; requiring certain implementation legislation to include certain criteria and specifications, subject to a certain limitation; declaring the intent of the General Assembly that certain revenues be used for dedicated purposes including the funding of public education; and submitting the Act to a referendum of the qualified voters of the State.
AI Summary
This bill, titled "Expansion of Commercial Gaming - Internet Gaming Referendum," proposes to allow the General Assembly to authorize the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to issue licenses for Internet gaming, which refers to online gambling. Any legislation passed to implement this would need to specify criteria for who can get a license and what types of online gambling are allowed, with licenses only being granted to current holders of video lottery operation licenses (businesses that operate video lottery terminals, a type of gambling machine) or entities contracted by them. Crucially, if voters approve this measure in a referendum scheduled for November 2026, any money generated from Internet gaming will be specifically set aside for purposes like funding public education. The bill itself is contingent on voter approval, meaning it will only become law if a majority of voters support it in the referendum.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Ways and Means Hearing (13:00:00 3/5/2026 ) (on 03/05/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1255?ys=2026RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/hb/hb1255f.pdf |
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