The Maryland Sports Gaming and Application Review Board (SWARC) has approved a draft regulation and application for online sports betting after doing nothing for several months.
Retail sports betting began last December, but online licensees have not yet been granted and the process faces an uncertain time frame to complete.
SWARC’s approval of the proposed regulation at the July meeting is an important step forward, but there is still work to be done before the launch of the online sportsbook.
Regulations must be sent to the Legislative Review Board for a 30-day public review. In addition, the final rule must be published by the Maryland Register.
Businesses currently interested in launching online and mobile services in the state can apply to the Maryland Lottery and Games Administration (MLGCA) for mandatory background checks.
MLGCA must clear the operator before SWARC grants the license.
June, Governor of Maryland, Larry Hogan, Mounting pressure SWARC has finalized the regulations in time for the start of the NFL season on September 8. It focuses on the long and bureaucratic process from May 2021 that signed the HB940 to allow sports betting.
“Marylander complains about mobile sports betting becoming available in states across the country, including jurisdictions near Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, and Washington, DC. “We are,” said the governor.
“I share their frustration, and I call on you to take the steps I have outlined immediately.”
