History Behind Proposed Sports Betting Bill in Maryland
Online sports betting in Maryland was approved on the 2020 November ballot but did not go live until late 2022. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency oversees sportsbooks and casinos. Maryland was one of the last states in the region to conceive an online sports betting industry. With more than 30 licenses on the table, it could offer more online sportsbook operators than neighboring states.
When online sports betting in Maryland launched, the usual suspects were first to the punch. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars were among the first online sportsbook operators in Maryland. However, it did not take long for names like PointsBet and BetRivers to make an appearance. Over time, there could be a more diverse offering of online sportsbooks in Maryland.
Maryland is unlike most other states that offer online sports betting for several reasons. For one, the sheer length of time between when online sports betting was approved to when online sports betting went live dwarves that of any other state. Marylanders were forced to wait more than 2 years before they could wager on sports online. On the other hand, Maryland is set to boast more online sportsbook operators than any other nearby state.
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MD Online Sportsbook Operators
The slate of online sportsbooks available in Maryland resembles other states, specifically its neighbor to the north, Pennsylvania. Online sportsbooks available include FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers, Fanatics, BetFred, Caesars, and ESPN Bet. In most cases, if you have an account with these online sportsbooks in other states, you can seamlessly log in when betting in Maryland. With that said, some online sportsbooks will have state-specific apps, meaning that you will need to download a new app to wager in Maryland. Welcome bonuses are available at many online sportsbooks including BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings.
It is important to remember that all of Maryland’s approved online sports betting operators need to know your location before you are allowed to place bets. This is true in every state where online sports betting is legal. What’s more, bettors need to verify their identity when signing up for a Maryland online sportsbook. This will require individuals to submit the last four numbers of their Social Security number. This is a safe process that is required by law but is something that can catch people off guard.
When compared to other Mid-Atlantic states, Maryland’s online sports betting landscape is in its infancy. There is still a lot to be excited about, especially when you consider the number of online sportsbooks that can operate there. With more than 30 sportsbooks all vying for bettors, you can rest assured knowing that Maryland will be one of the most competitive online sports betting states in the country.
Bonuses and Other Offers From MD Online Sportsbooks
Bonus offers for new players are similar to other states. No two bonuses are created equally, and not every bonus is right for every bettor. In Maryland, there is ample choice. Some sportsbooks will offer a first-bet loss rebate. Others offer players the opportunity to receive multiple bonus bets by placing a single wager of just a few dollars. PointBet, for example, offers a series of bonus bets if an account’s first wager loses. On the other hand, DraftKings gives players $150 in bonus credits for placing just a single $5 wager.
Many Maryland bettors have created an account and taken advantage of a signup offer in other states. It is important to note that most sites do not allow you to double-dip in Maryland. In other words, if you have signed up for Caesars Sportsbook in Pennsylvania and took advantage of the signup bonus there, you cannot also receive the signup bonus in Maryland.
As online sports betting competition grows, the expectation is that this will be a wholly good thing for players. More operators mean a larger number of bonuses, but also means that the bonus offers themselves will be more attractive.
Sports Teams to Bet on in Maryland
Maryland law allows wagers on NCAA sports, including in-state teams. However, individual player prop bets are not permitted, as of February 2024. The University of Maryland and the United States Naval Academy are the two most popular colleges within the state.
Three professional sports franchises play in Maryland. These three teams are the Baltimore Orioles, the Baltimore Ravens, and the Washington Commanders.
The Baltimore Orioles play in the American League East division of the MLB. the team has struggled in the 21st century, but they have won three World Series titles in franchise history. The last time that the Orioles won the American League East was in 2014. Managed by Brandon Hyde, the team plays in Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
Right down the street from Camden Yards is M&T Bank Stadium, which is home to the Baltimore Ravens. The Baltimore Ravens play in the AFC North Division of the NFL. Coach John Harbaugh led the Ravens to a Super Bowl championship in 2012. The Ravens have made the playoffs six times since 2010.
The Washington Commanders play at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. The Washington Commanders were formerly known as the Washington Football Team, and before that, the Redskins. The Commanders are members of the NFL’s NFC East Division.
College betting is permitted on in-state schools. However, the state banned player prop betting on college games in February 2024.
Maryland Sports Betting FAQ
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting was legalized by residents of the state in the November 2020 election. Online sports betting went live during the final months of 2022.
What’s the legal age to place a bet in Maryland?
The legal age to place a bet in Maryland will be 21 years of age.
What type of sports betting options are available?
Maryland sports betting features mobile and retail gaming throughout the state. With more than 30 online licenses and up to 60 retail licenses available, it is safe to say there are plenty of options for players.
Is it legal to bet on college sports in Maryland?
College betting, including in-state schools, is legal in Maryland. The exception is prop betting, which was prohibited in February 2024.
What will Maryland’s sports betting tax revenue be dedicated to?
Initially, Maryland sports betting tax revenue will support the effort to rebuild the educational system within the state.