As the deadline for legislative approval of a proposed Maryland online casino looms, lawmakers are scrambling to make adjustments to the bill in order to garner enough support for its passage.
The proposal, which would legalize online casino gambling in the state, has faced numerous hurdles in recent weeks as lawmakers have raised concerns about various aspects of the bill. Most notably, opponents of the bill have expressed worries about the potential for increased problem gambling and the impact on existing brick-and-mortar casinos in the state.
In response to these concerns, lawmakers have made a number of key adjustments to the bill. One major change is a provision that would require online casinos to implement strict responsible gambling measures, including age verification checks and self-exclusion tools. Additionally, the bill would establish a fund to provide support for individuals who develop gambling problems as a result of online casino play.
Another significant adjustment to the bill is a provision that would give existing Maryland casinos the option to apply for licenses to operate online casinos. This move is seen as a way to protect the interests of brick-and-mortar casinos in the state, which have expressed concerns about potential competition from online gambling operators.
However, time is running short for the bill to be passed before the end of the legislative session. With just a few days left in the session, lawmakers are working furiously to secure enough votes for the bill to pass.
Proponents of the bill argue that legalizing online casino gambling in Maryland would bring in much-needed revenue for the state, as well as create new jobs in the online gambling industry. They also point to the success of online casino gambling in other states, such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as evidence of the potential benefits of legalization.
Despite these arguments, opponents of the bill remain steadfast in their opposition, citing concerns about the social costs of expanded gambling. With both sides digging in their heels, it remains to be seen whether the Maryland online casino proposal will ultimately pass before the legislative session comes to a close.
