Maryland Lawmakers Begin Talks Of Major Gambling Expansion

The state of Maryland, through no fault of its own, has fallen behind in the race to become the top gaming destination in the Northeast. On Thursday, lawmakers started exchanging ideas on how to catch up.

Many different proposals were discussed on Thursday, but the central topic seemed to be focused on table games. Pennsylvania lawmakers recently legalized table games, and now Maryland legislators may do the same.

"It does concern us that all of the states that surround us, if we're going to depend on this (gambling) income, are better situated now than we are," said Senator Dolores Kelley, during a debate on gambling expansion, "If our people want to be equal or competitive with the surrounding states, it makes sense."

Among the proposals floated this week was bringing slot machines to veteran organizations. These organizations often rely on gambling for financing, and without the machines many are struggling.

The table game option was brought on at the recommendation of members of the House of Delegates. They believe that table games are needed to compete with Pennsylvania and other Northeastern states.

Delaware is another state that has considered casino table games. Delaware lawmakers have already approved sports betting last year. New Jersey is considering adding sports betting as well.

March 18, 2010
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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