Maryland Senators file competing sports betting bills
Two competing bills to authorize sports betting in Maryland have been introduced in the state senate.
While Senate Bill 58, introduced by senator Chris West, would only allow sports wagering licenses to be issued to video lottery or thoroughbred and harness horse racing licensees, the other bill – Craig Zucker’s Senate Bill 4 – would create an open application process.
Currently, six casinos hold video lottery licences in Maryland. These are MGM National Harbor, The Casino at Ocean Downs Racetrack, Live Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Rocky Gap Casino Resort, Horseshoe Baltimore Casino and Hollywood Casino Perryville.
A further five racetracks – Laurel Park, Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore, Timonium Racecourse, Fair Hill Races in Elkton and Rosecroft raceway in Fort Washington – hold thoroughbred or harness racing licences alongside Ocean Downs.