Maryland iGaming Bill Faces Industry Debate Over Casino Impact at House Hearing

iDEA testified in support, but with amendments. The link to watch the video is here. Delegate Atterbeary presented the bill at the 17-min mark, and our panel starts at 42:30. Our panel testified for over an hour. 

Key takeaways from the hearing:

• Opposition Themes: Addiction concerns and cannibalization/job loss remain central.
• New Study: The National Association Against iGaming (Cordish, Churchill, Monarch, etc.) commissioned The Innovation Group to update their study, now claiming a 16% cannibalization rate.
• Their math: land-based revenues fell 4% in iGaming states but grew 12% in non-iGaming states. You can view their study here
• MD Outlook: iGaming remains viable as a revenue solution for the budget gap. A key discussion in the hearing was removing the referendum requirement to expedite revenue (avoiding a ballot vote). This hinges on the AG’s opinion, which may require a push from the Governor/legislative leadership. However, doing so would limit licenses to casinos, potentially shifting current supporters to opponents.