Maryland: Watch Tomorrow’s SWARC Proceedings Live

Based on information I’ve received from people who are closely tied to the SWARC and Lottery, there continues to be concerns being raised by the State Attorney General’s Office about how and who can get licensed for competitive Class B (retail) and mobile. They have slowed down the process significantly in recent weeks and tomorrow’s meeting (per the agenda) will have a “closed door” session to go over the AG’s legal concerns. Further, the AG’s office was tasked with hiring the firm to do the updated disparity study, but has yet to finalize that contract – even though they said it was imminent during the last SWARC meeting held on January 19^th.

They have slowed down the process significantly in recent weeks and tomorrow’s meeting (per the agenda) will have a “closed door” session to go over the AG’s legal concerns. Further, the AG’s office was tasked with hiring the firm to do the updated disparity study, but has yet to finalize that contract – even though they said it was imminent during the last SWARC meeting held on January 19^th.

I am aware that many of the SWARC members are frustrated with the process and would like to move quickly but have been held back by the AG’s office. There is likely some political maneuvering taking place behind the scenes, some of which may be more clear after tomorrow’s hearing.

I’ll report back on any major developments after the SWARC meeting.

Regards,
John A. Pappas
jpappas@ideagrowth.org