Online gambling is currently illegal in Maryland. However, residents can place horse race bets via computers or mobile devices without it being considered illegal; this practice generates substantial revenue for the state.
Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency would likely regulate online casinos if they become legal in Maryland. Many currently operate from offshore locations that are governed by their respective countries and offer various banking options.
Legality
Maryland lawmakers have been deliberating over legalizing online casinos and poker. If approved, these activities would be overseen by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency which already regulates retail casinos and sports wagering – the latter of which generated $25.3 million during its inaugural year of legal sports wagering! Most of this money went toward supporting public education with Blueprint for Maryland’s Future while some went towards combating problem gambling.
State law does not restrict residents from gambling online at offshore sites, but there is a voluntary exclusion program in place which allows players to voluntarily opt-out under threat of criminal trespass and save themselves from gaming facilities altogether. For problem gamblers this program can be lifesaving; additionally there is also a free treatment program available via licensed counselors; only those assessed can utilize this opportunity.
Regulation
Maryland lawmakers are exploring online gambling, but Maryland must still do much more before it can compete with neighboring states in terms of revenue generation. New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware already operate legal iGaming operations that could serve as models.
Before then, Maryland residents will need to visit land-based casinos for their gambling needs. These casinos provide a range of games – including thousands of slots and multiple blackjack varieties (such as Classic, European and Face Up blackjack), roulette as well as video poker machines – in addition to various table games and live casino action.
Participation in illegal gambling activities could result in prosecution by state and federal authorities. Maryland recently changed their gambling laws to make sports betting legal; now, betting on sites not approved by Maryland only constitutes a civil offense.
Bonuses
Online gambling sites often provide players with bonuses. Some provide free chips while others require deposits in order to unlock them. When considering any bonus offer from an online gambling site, be sure to carefully read its terms and conditions – in some cases these bonuses require minimum deposits, while in others identity verification will be needed before being eligible to claim them.
Maryland lawmakers remain committed to legal online casino gaming despite failing to pass their previous bill, even as their previous attempt fell short of passage. The Lottery and Gaming Control Commission has recently announced it will conduct a study on the benefits of legalizing it within its borders; specifically how best to regulate it with measures designed to protect consumers, prevent underage gambling, and provide mental health support services for problem gamblers.
Payment options
Maryland does not yet permit online casino gaming; however, residents are still permitted to place bets on sports events and horse races through licensed operators. Furthermore, daily fantasy sports is legal in Maryland as an enjoyable alternative to more traditional forms of gambling.
Maryland recognizes the importance of responsible gambling. To combat problem gambling, they provide 24-hour helplines, outreach programs and voluntary exclusion lists. Lawmakers could further address problem gambling by allocating funding towards treatment and prevention programs.
Although lawmakers want to legalize online gaming, this process will take time and may take months or years before Maryland launches its first sites.
Customer service
Those new to gambling should ensure they choose an operator with great customer service, offering live chat or email as an avenue of contact should any issues arise.
Maryland’s six land-based casinos are licensed to offer an expansive selection of casino and electronic table games, along with thousands of traditional and progressive slot machines. Maryland also features a lottery app and nine bingo halls within state lines, with its sports betting market having generated millions in profits; proceeds go toward supporting Blueprint for Maryland’s Future while others support responsible gambling efforts.
Though online casinos are illegal in Maryland, residents can still play at sites located in neighboring states like Pennsylvania and New Jersey that use state-approved payment methods to make deposits and withdrawals safe and swift.