Worcester County officials are strongly opposed to pending state legislation that would permit casinos to launch their own gambling apps, allowing Marylanders to participate in casino-style gaming from their smartphones or tablet devices.
One of six casino properties statewide that could be affected by the proposal is Ocean Downs in Berlin. Unlike bigger casinos – many of which are resort-style properties, with high-end hotels, restaurants, and theaters – Ocean Downs is a regional casino that relies on tourism and local foot traffic.
However, before internet gaming, or “iGaming,” becomes legal in Maryland, voters would have to approve it via ballot referendum in the Nov. 3 general election.
Lawmakers first would have to pass a bill authorizing the referendum. Voters would be asked whether Maryland should expand commercial gambling to include online casino games, with revenues dedicated primarily to public education.
A companion bill outlining how iGaming would be regulated would only take effect if voters approve the referendum. The Senate’s version of that bill was scheduled for a hearing Wednesday in Annapolis.
Opponents worry that iGaming would cannibalize Ocean Downs’ customer base: if a local gambler can legally wager from home using a smartphone, they may stop coming in person.