Maryland Sports Betting Bills Awaiting Governor’s Signature, Including Provisions to Ban Deals with Schools

Maryland is one of the latest states to legalize sports betting, and the state’s lawmakers have been working to finalize the details of the new legislation. Two bills have been passed by the Maryland General Assembly, and they are now awaiting the signature of Governor Larry Hogan.

The first bill, HB 940, would legalize sports betting in Maryland and establish a regulatory framework for the industry. The bill would allow for both online and in-person sports betting, and it would require operators to obtain licenses from the state.

The second bill, SB 4, includes provisions that would ban deals between sports betting operators and schools. This provision was added after concerns were raised about the potential for conflicts of interest if schools were allowed to partner with sports betting companies.

Under the provisions of SB 4, sports betting operators would be prohibited from entering into any agreements with schools or school districts in Maryland. This would include agreements for advertising or sponsorship, as well as any other type of partnership.

The ban on deals with schools is seen as an important safeguard against potential conflicts of interest. Some lawmakers had expressed concerns that if schools were allowed to partner with sports betting companies, it could create a situation where students and athletes were exposed to gambling advertisements or other promotions.

In addition to the ban on deals with schools, SB 4 also includes provisions that would require sports betting operators to contribute a portion of their revenue to a fund that would be used to support problem gambling programs in Maryland.

Overall, the passage of these two bills represents an important step forward for sports betting in Maryland. If Governor Hogan signs the bills into law, Maryland will become the latest state to legalize sports betting, joining a growing number of states across the country.

While there are still some details to be worked out, such as the exact tax rate that will be imposed on sports betting operators, the passage of these bills is a positive development for the industry. With the potential for significant revenue generation, sports betting could provide a much-needed boost to Maryland’s economy, while also providing a new form of entertainment for residents and visitors alike.