Lawmakers in Mid-Atlantic racing states Maryland and Virginia will consider legislation that would allow online casino gaming in the states. According to a story from igamingbusiness.com, legislation that would allow online gambling has been pre-filed in both states.
In Maryland, HB 17 officially will be filed Jan. 8, according to IGB, and would allow iGaming regulated by the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission. Tax proceeds from iGaming would be earmarked for education.
IGB reports that a similar bill last year passed the house but didn't reach the Senate floor as lawmakers had concerns that online gambling would negatively impact retail casinos.
Maryland retail casinos offer video lottery terminals and approved table games. Taxes on VLTs in the state benefit Maryland racing, with 6% going to purses and 1% to track facility maintenance and upgrades.
A pre-filed bill in Virginia would legalize online casino gaming in that state, including live-dealer games. IGB reports that operators would be taxed at 15% of adjusted gross revenue.
In Virginia, historical horse racing at brick and mortar outlets has helped fuel a resurgence in racing at Colonial Downs, which since reopening in 2019 has steadily increased purses and added race dates.
