Maryland Becomes Next State to Propose Ban on Sports Betting

Is sports betting in the Free State coming to an end?

Maryland Senator Joanne Benson has introduced Senate Bill 1033, which would end sports betting in the state. The bill would overturn the current law to re-enact a ban on the industry over two years after it went live. The bill would also eliminate the lottery.

There are currently 11 online and 13 retail sportsbooks operating in Maryland.

Problem Gambling Continues to Rise

The proposal to ban sports betting attempts to curb the rise in problem gambling. Regulators and lawmakers have struggled to get a handle on the issue as more and more families are affected by it. The issue is stalling several attempts to legalize the industry in other states, and some lawmakers are now looking to reverse course.

Opponents of SB 1033 believe it would do more harm than good. There are several ways to bet on sports using offshore books and local bookies. Those suffering from gambling addiction can easily access those options, which present a far greater risk than regulated sportsbooks. 

The sports betting industry also funds many problem gambling programs and tools, which could go away if the bill passes.

Troubling Trend for Sportsbooks

Most online sportsbook operators have fought hard against further regulation of the sports betting industry. They have also attempted to create tools to help those struggling with problem gambling, but their marketing practices seem to be fueling the problem.

This Maryland bill comes soon after Vermont introduced a similar piece of legislation. Vermont has a far smaller market than Maryland, so the proposal did not gain much attention. However, with the Free State proposing a bill so similar to Vermont’s, it could be the beginning of a troubling trend for sportsbooks.

How Will the Industry Respond?

It seems that SB 1033 is going to fail, but it could serve as a jumping-off point for enacting more regulations. This would cut into the revenue of sportsbooks, which have been fighting hard to avoid them. 

Two states are now discussing a ban on the industry, which could motivate these operators to self-impose regulations to help prevent a significant crackdown from lawmakers.