Maryland Mobile Sports Betting: A Journey from Legislation to Launch
The path to mobile sports betting in Maryland has been a winding one, filled with anticipation and meticulous planning. Nearly nine months after the state law was passed to allow up to 60 mobile sportsbook licenses, the industry saw a gradual yet significant development. The journey from legislation to the actual launch of Maryland mobile sports betting is a tale of regulatory diligence and strategic market expansion.
The Initial Phase: Retail Sports Betting Kickoff
Maryland mobile sports betting launched successfully on November 23, 2022, after SWARC awarded 10 licenses to operators including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and BetRivers on November 16, 2022.
Before Maryland could dive into the mobile sports betting scene, the focus was on getting retail facilities up and running. The integration of sportsbooks within five of the state’s casinos marked the beginning of this new era. These establishments were part of the initial wave, alongside three off-track betting venues (OTBs) expected to launch shortly after. This phase was crucial, laying the groundwork for a broader expansion into the mobile domain.
These eight locations were among 17 designated by the 2021 Maryland sports betting law (HB940) to offer retail sports betting. This two-pronged state regulatory process was just the start, setting the stage for a much larger rollout that would include mobile and online sports betting.
The Expansion: Mobile Sports Betting
The anticipation for Maryland mobile sports betting was palpable, with the promise of up to 60 mobile/online licenses set to be awarded. However, the process proved to be meticulous and measured, with the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) and the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) at the helm. Ensuring a fair and competitive bidding process while establishing regulations was paramount, leading to a deliberate pace that prioritized integrity and inclusivity in the industry.
As the state worked through these regulatory requirements, it became evident that the deployment of mobile sports betting would follow a thoughtful trajectory, aimed at fostering a diverse and equitable market. This included a significant focus on ensuring women- and minority-owned businesses had opportunities to participate in the burgeoning sports betting industry, aligning with Maryland’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Outcome: Maryland’s Sports Betting Landscape
By December, Maryland’s retail sports betting had generated a total handle of $16.55 million from the five casinos that had opened sportsbook operations. This achievement was not just a testament to the state’s appetite for sports betting but also a preview of the potential that mobile betting could unlock. The operators’ success, contributing $469,297 in tax revenue to public education, highlighted the positive impact of regulated sports betting on the community.
Despite the intricate process and the time it took to launch, the excitement and eagerness from both operators and bettors remained undiminished. The state’s approach, focusing on a responsible and inclusive rollout, set a precedent for how to introduce mobile sports betting in a way that benefits all stakeholders, including the local communities.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Maryland Mobile Sports Betting
With the initial hurdles of regulation and licensing behind, the future of Maryland mobile sports betting looks bright. The state’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive market, coupled with the evident demand from sports enthusiasts, lays a solid foundation for growth. As the industry evolves, Maryland is poised to be a key player in the national sports betting landscape, offering lessons in patience, regulation, and the importance of an equitable approach.
The journey from legislation to launch may have been longer than some anticipated, but it has been a journey marked by careful planning and strategic decisions. Maryland’s entry into mobile sports betting is not just about opening a new market—it’s about setting a standard for how sports betting can contribute positively to the state and its residents.