Maryland Online Casinos – Gambling Guide in 2024

Maryland online casinos have yet to go through the legalization process in the State. In recent years, Maryland has been actively taking steps to expand its gambling offerings. The State continues to broaden its range of gambling options. However, it is essential to note that online casinos have yet to be legalized in Maryland. On a positive note, online sports betting was launched in November 2022.

Several months later, a significant development emerged with the proposal of SB 267. This groundbreaking legislation marked a historic moment in Maryland, as lawmakers took steps towards legalizing online casinos. The proposed legislation aims to empower the voters during the 2024 election, allowing them to shape the future of Maryland’s online casino landscape. Additionally, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency is conducting a comprehensive study to assess the potential economic impact of this initiative.

Considering this, the viable online casino choices are limited to the sweepstakes and social casinos listed above. Numerous sweepstakes sites and social casino platforms provide a range of slots, table games, and interactive poker options for those who engage with them.

Is online gambling legal in Maryland?

Maryland’s gambling laws now permit online wagering on various sporting events and daily fantasy sports. The legislation, signed in May 2021, paved the way for the launch of retail operations in the fall of the same year, followed by the introduction of betting applications in November 2022. Additionally, the State provides the Maryland Lottery App, allowing players to purchase and renew electronic subscriptions, scan tickets, and set jackpot alerts.

In Maryland, in-person gambling is permitted at the six state-licensed casinos. Unlike some states, Maryland does not have any tribal casinos. Notably, the State maintains a positive stance towards gambling activities. For instance, charitable gaming is described as “Not illegal,” with regulations primarily handled by cities and counties. Consequently, permits for charitable gaming in Maryland are issued at the county level rather than the state level.

What authority regulates gambling in Maryland?

The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission supervises and regulates casino gambling within the State. Consisting of seven members, each appointed by the governor and approved by the State Senate, this commission ensures effective oversight. While it may seem plausible for the Maryland Racing Commission to serve as the regulator, such a choice needs coherence and logical reasoning.

The state agency has the crucial role of licensing and ensuring compliance of all online casino sites and bookmakers in Maryland with the State’s gambling laws and regulations. Additionally, it diligently provides monthly revenue reports and oversees a dedicated division committed to promoting responsible online gambling in Maryland.

Maryland Online Casino Laws

Currently, online casino gambling, encompassing slots, table games, and poker sites, is prohibited in Maryland. The introduction of legislation to legalize online casinos has yet to have a definite timeline. The State’s lawmakers are giving precedence over implementing online and retail sports betting.

Maryland legislators may explore including online casinos as part of the State’s expanding gambling offerings. Presently, New Jersey, a neighboring state, leads the nation in online casino gambling revenue, with Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia also legalizing online casinos.

Maryland is prioritizing establishing retail and online betting platforms for sporting events. However, online casinos could potentially dominate the next frontier in online gambling. In the meantime, online casino enthusiasts in Maryland can indulge in various entertainment options, including slots, table games, and poker, by conveniently accessing various sweepstakes casinos.

What is the prediction that Maryland may legalize online casinos?

The exact timing of the debut of online casinos in Maryland remains uncertain, with a potential launch not expected until at least 2024 and possibly even later—or perhaps not at all. Our understanding is limited to some indications drawn from the current State of gambling within Maryland and its neighboring regions.

In late 2022, Maryland lawmakers and regulators focused on introducing online sports betting. However, more recently, some attention has shifted towards online casinos. In January 2023, Senators Ron Watson and Nancy King introduced their online casino bill.

If most Maryland voters oppose the legalization of online casino gaming, this bill will be rendered null and void. Conversely, if the referendum garners majority support, iGaming will be deemed legal 30 days after the official vote tally.

Maryland Social Casinos and Sweepstakes

Maryland is currently prioritizing the development of retail and online betting platforms for sporting events. However, the future of online gambling may be dominated by online casinos. In the interim, Maryland residents can enjoy various entertainment options, such as slots, table games, and poker, through convenient access to various sweepstakes casinos.

Sweepstakes casinos offer diverse slots and table games commonly found in traditional or online casinos. What sets these casinos apart is their operation without exchanging real money. Instead, players engage with virtual currencies to compete and vie for enticing rewards. Accessible through Sweepstakes casino websites, Facebook, and various applications, these games cater to a broad audience. Moreover, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland boasts its social casino platform. Prominent among the social and sweepstakes casino sites are the following:

• Pulsz
• Chumba Casino
• LuckyLand Slots
• Funzpoints

Social casino sites in Maryland provide entertainment options for those seeking a fun time. One notable example is MGM Slots Live, offered by MGM National Harbor, which offers a wide range of engaging games for players to enjoy. These sites are linked to retail casinos, ensuring a seamless and immersive gambling experience for all.

Horse racing in Maryland

Legal gambling in Maryland predates the formation of the United States. The establishment of the Maryland Jockey Club in Annapolis in 1743 marked the beginning of its rich history in horse racing management. Maryland’s prominent position in U.S. horse racing is owed to the renowned Pimlico Race Course. Horse racing enthusiasts flock to Maryland every May to experience the exhilarating Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the prestigious Triple Crown. Within the Old Line State, there are six horse racing facilities, four of which are dedicated to thoroughbred racing. Allow me to present the distinguished tracks in Maryland:

• Fair Hill Races (thoroughbred)
• Laurel Park (thoroughbred)
• Ocean Downs (harness)
• Pimlico Race Course (thoroughbred)
• Rosecroft Raceway (harness)
• Timonium Race Course (thoroughbred)

All six racetracks offer pari-mutuel wagering. Furthermore, Pimlico and Timonium function as off-track betting locations when live racing is not accessible. Among the bunch, Ocean Downs stands as the sole racino and is counted among Maryland’s six casino locations.

In addition to off-track betting parlors, Maryland offers this service at three other casinos. You can place wagers on simulcast racing at Hollywood Casino Perryville, Horseshoe Baltimore, and MGM National Harbor. Moreover, Maryland boasts three standalone OTBs: Greenmount Station in Hampstead, Long Shot’s in Frederick, and Riverboat on the Potomac in Colonial Beach.

Like many other states, Maryland permits its residents to partake in online horse race betting. Among the plethora of horse betting sites in Maryland, TVG emerges as the premier option. With unrivaled service and an extensive array of betting options, TVG surpasses expectations.

Additionally, TVG provides a wealth of resources to educate and aid bettors in making informed decisions. What distinguishes TVG is its unmatched status as the sole 24-hour broadcast network in the United States dedicated solely to horse betting. Whether day or night, you can rely on TVG to offer invaluable insights and race tips nationwide.

Maryland Lottery

1973, the Maryland Lottery debuted, selling the very first lottery tickets. By 1990, the State had proudly established itself as one of the nation’s leaders in lottery spending. In addition to offering multi-state games like Mega Millions and Powerball, the Maryland Lottery permits interstate draw games such as Pick 3 and Pick 4. With a network of 4,400 retailers spread across the State, obtaining lottery tickets is convenient for residents and visitors. Players must be 18 years old to participate in the state lottery.

Retail casinos in Maryland

Regarding gambling in Maryland, residents already have many appealing options. The State boasts six impressive land-based casinos, with the first, Hollywood Casino Perryville, opening its doors in September 2010. The introduction of table games in 2012 further enhanced the offerings. MGM National Harbor, the sixth and most recent addition, commenced operations in December 2016, solidifying Maryland’s reputation as a thriving hub for gaming enthusiasts in the Old Line State.

There is always something exciting to wager on in Maryland at a land-based casino. For example, the Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore offers a staggering selection of 131 table games for enthusiasts. If you prefer a wider variety of table games like Spanish 21, Three-Card Poker, Four-Card Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold’ Em, visiting the Hollywood Casino in Perryville is a must. On the other hand, if you are in the Oxon Hill & Washington DC area, the MGM National Harbor boasts one of the finest on-site poker rooms available.

For an exhilarating live-action experience, visit Maryland Live! Discover over 200 live-action table games, including numerous “dealer-assist” electronic table games.

Even though slot machines made a comeback in the Old Line State in 2008, industry analysts argue that the current options are not authentic slot machines. Instead, they resemble video lottery terminals (VLTs) and fall under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Lottery.

In Maryland, all casinos are authorized to provide a variety of games, including slot-like games and traditional table games. Additionally, select counties permit charity organizations to host enjoyable casino and card game nights.

Casino Name	City	Adress	Phone Number	Type	Owner/Operator	Poker
Hollywood Casino Perryville	Perryville	1201 Chesapeake Overlook Pkwy, Perryville, MD 21903	(410) 378-8500	Casino	Penn National Gaming	Yes
Horseshoe Casino Baltimore	Baltimore	1525 Russell St, Baltimore, MD 21230	(844) 777-7463	Casino/OTB	Caesars Entertainment	Yes
Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland	Hanover	7002 Arundel Mills Cir, Hanover, MD 21076	(443) 842-7000	Casino	The Cordish Companies	Yes
MGM National Harbor	Oxon Hill	101 MGM National Ave, Oxon Hill, MD 20745	(844) 646-6847	Casino/OTB	MGM Resorts International	Yes
Ocean Downs Casino	Berlin	10218 Racetrack Rd, Berlin, MD 21811	(410) 641-0600	Racino	Churchill Downs Inc.	No
Rocky Gap Casino Resort	Flintstone	16701 Lakeview Rd NE, Flintstone, MD 21530	(301) 784-8400	Casino	Golden Entertainment	No

Land-based casinos in Maryland

Despite the legal allowance for Maryland casinos to operate within the State, the options available are limited. Following a temporary closure due to the pandemic, the reopening dates for Maryland casinos were announced in 2021.

Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland

The Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland opened in 2012 near the Anne Arundel Mall. With its expansive footprint, it stands as one of the largest casinos in Maryland. Boasting a staggering array of offerings, it presents players with over 4,000 slot and video poker machines. Additionally, it showcases a wide range of more than 250 tables, including an impressive collection of over 50 dedicated to poker.

Hollywood Casino Perryville

Hollywood Casino Perryville is the first licensed casino to open its doors in the State. As a part of the illustrious Hollywood brand, this prime establishment enjoys a convenient location between Delaware and major cities in Maryland. Boasting over 800 slot machines and many table games, including popular options like Blackjack and poker, this casino promises an unforgettable gaming experience for all visitors.

Horseshoe Casino Baltimore

Situated on the south side of Baltimore, the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore reigns as a captivating Caesars’ property. With an impressive array of amenities, this destination leaves little desire for any other Maryland casinos. Boasting an extensive collection of over 2,400 slots and video poker machines, as well as an abundant selection of 150+ table games, the Horseshoe offers an unparalleled gaming experience. Furthermore, poker enthusiasts can revel in the opportunity to participate in the World Series of Poker, as the casino features a remarkable 20+ poker tables.

MGM National Harbor

On December 8, 2016, the final addition to Maryland’s portfolio of casinos opened its doors as a top-tier entertainment destination. With an expansive selection of nearly 3,000 slots, table games, and hybrid electronic games, it provides an array of options for every preference. In a league of its own, it offers the rare chance to indulge in craps, roulette, and casino war simultaneously. The facility also includes poker off-track betting and proudly holds the title of the nearest casino to Washington D.C., situated 11 miles away. Boasting an impressive 39 percent market share, it firmly maintains its position as the leading revenue generator in the State.

Ocean Downs

Located in Berlin, just six miles west of the picturesque coastal resort town of Ocean City, you will find a captivating combination of a casino and a harness track. This exceptional establishment offers year-round simulcast racing and a thrilling live racing schedule during summer. With over 800 slot machines, an array of table games, and video poker, the casino provides endless entertainment for all.

Rocky Gap Casino Resort

Rocky Gap State Park, located in Western Maryland, is a vast public recreation area. It enjoys a convenient proximity of fewer than 15 miles from both the West Virginia and Pennsylvania borders. The park’s casino provides a wide array of amenities, such as 665 slot machines, 17 table games, and a meticulously crafted golf course designed professionally by Jack Nicklaus.

Responsible Gambling in Maryland

Established in 2010, the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling aims to extend support and resources to Maryland residents facing gambling-related issues. The Alliance addresses this concern by combining various organizations, such as the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, and representatives from the State’s casinos. The State offers a voluntary exclusion program to empower individuals. It allows Maryland players to self-exclude themselves from the State’s casinos or the Maryland lottery for at least two years or even longer.

As approved by the State, the message promoting responsible gambling must be prominently displayed at every entrance to the gaming floor in Maryland’s casinos. According to the law, revenue from gaming licenses should be used to cover operational costs for the State’s problem gambling hotline. Furthermore, the State mandates that a portion of the annual fee for each video lottery terminal and table game operated by the casinos be allocated toward supporting individuals with gambling-related issues within the State.

Maryland Voluntary Player Exclusion Program

You may want to connect with the Gamblers Anonymous support group to find extra support. G.A. chapters hold regular meetings throughout Maryland, conveniently near your home or office. If you have a loved one grappling with gambling addiction, there is also a support group called GAM-ANON, specifically designed for family members.

Maryland has a voluntary gambling cessation program for people who admit that, despite their best efforts, they cannot stop gambling. Those facing this problem can petition the State to effectively bar themselves from legal entry into any gambling establishments in Maryland. The goal of this initiative is to provide support and assistance to those in need, as well as create a healthier gaming environment.

Participating in the program while continuing to gamble can have serious consequences. This includes the possibility of criminal charges, fines, and even jail time. Once you are on the list, you cannot remove yourself for at least two years. The State G.P. must confirm your fitness and well-being to be eligible for removal. Participation in the program may sometimes be permanent.

So, the key things you need to know

• In Maryland, individuals must be at least 21 years old to participate in the Lottery or Powerball according to legal requirements.
• In Maryland, you can place wagers on thrilling horse racing events.
• Although online casinos are not regulated in Maryland, players from M.D. can still enjoy their favorite casino games by turning to offshore online casinos.
• In Maryland, it is perfectly legal to enjoy playing at physical land-based casinos.
• The inaugural land-based casino debuted in 2010, and presently, six land-based establishments exist in M.D.

The Future of Maryland Online Casinos Looks Promising

Despite not being currently legalized, the prospects of online casino gambling becoming lawful in Maryland are pretty promising. The State already permits various forms of online gambling, such as sports betting, which was approved by voters and enacted into law in 2021. While online betting has gained widespread acceptance, there is growing support among voters and state legislators, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, for legalizing online casino gambling.

Is it legal to play in offshore casinos?

Under Maryland law, no explicit provision permits online gambling, despite any claims made by offshore websites. Online gambling is not listed as an offense in Maryland. The State does have legal online sportsbooks and betting apps available. While some industry experts maintain that playing on offshore gambling sites is legal and secure, it is always prudent to consult with a lawyer if you have any concerns about joining a specific site. This will ensure that you stay on the right side of the law.

Legal aspect

Casino sites such as Bovada, America’s Cardroom, and BetOnline are established in countries beyond the borders of the United States. Commonly called “offshore” casinos, they provide various casino games. However, it is essential to note that no laws in Maryland permit these casinos to operate within the State.

These outlets can operate because there is no specific law that prohibits them. They argue that they are not breaking any state laws. However, their legality is mainly insignificant to our primary concerns. The actual risks lie in the practical aspects of utilizing these outlets.

The real issues

Due to their operation outside the United States, offshore casino sites are not bound by U.S. law. If you were to encounter any disputes with such a site, your options for seeking resolution would be limited. The site might refuse to process your withdrawal, restrict your account, or even shut down without recourse.

Although these websites may assert the presence of an overseeing agency, it is difficult to determine such an entity’s actual authority or efficacy. Moreover, verifying its impartiality remains an area for improvement, even if its authority is genuine.

Ultimately, even if the website’s administrators strive to maintain fairness, there is no guarantee that your personal information will be adequately safeguarded. Remember that you must disclose personal and banking details to engage in gameplay. The crux is that wagering a mere $5 on a virtual blackjack table is not worth jeopardizing your financial security or identity.

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