Maryland online sports betting since it started in Nov. 2022 has drawn a predicted $4B in bets, but it also “raises questions about addressing the potential for more people developing an addiction to betting," according to Hayes Gardner of the BALTIMORE SUN. With 15% of sportsbooks’ profits "going to the state," sports betting is “expected to raise at least” $40M for public education in Maryland in its first year. However, the growing mobile sports industry “doesn’t contribute to the Maryland Problem Gambling Fund," which "finances education on responsible betting and support for those facing addiction." Online sports betting is "not legally required to contribute to the fund," as slots and table games at casinos instead "finance support for problem gamblers." Despite October seeing Maryland have its “most successful sports betting month,” generating $5.8M in revenue for the state, the fund "hasn’t received extra money." Legislative analysts last month at a General Assembly committee hearing suggested that the Problem Gambling Fund "diversify its revenue." Gardner notes that would "likely mean requiring contributions from mobile sports gambling, perhaps as a result of action taken in the General Assembly’s 2024 session" (BALTIMORE SUN, 11/27).
Online gambling in Maryland reports an increase but no funds contributed to Problem Gambling FundGetty Images
