Maryland Government Issues Regulations Ahead of Potential Mobile Sports Betting Debut Prior to Super Bowl
Unleashing Mobile Sports Betting in Maryland: Super Bowl Time?
Here's the scoop, mate! The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) has taken another step towards bringing mobile sports wagering to the Old Line State, by publishing approved proposed regulations on August 26, 2022, in the Maryland Register.
These regulations will lay the groundwork for an extensive application process, with SWARC awarding up to 60 mobile sports wagering licenses and up to 30 Class B retail licenses. The whole shebang has been in the pipeline since mid-July, when SWARC gave a nod to a series of proposed regulations.
Now, the cat's out of the bag! A 30-day period for written comments on the new sports betting regulations will be open until September 26. Once the dust settles, all comments received will be available for our perusal on the Maryland state website (↗ Swarc.org).
Regulatory Ball Spin: There were no significant curveballs in the proposed regulations. SWARC will oversee a comprehensive licensing process, especially since online sports betting's popularity is on the rise. The new subtitle, COMAR 36.11, will explain SWARC's crucial role in awarding licenses, including mobile sports wagering permits.
Once applicants submit their applications to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission, SWARC will investigate each one, focusing on qualification requirements such as good character and financial stability. Only "qualified" applicants will be considered for a license based on their proposed business plan and operations, which must meet specific legal requirements enumerated in the Sports Wagering Law.
Stuck in the Starting Gate: Because of Maryland's approval process, mobile sports wagering might not be available statewide until right before the Super Bowl. Frustratingly, retail sports betting launched in the state back in December 2021, but the mobile platform is taking its sweet time.
Interested parties will have to shell out a non-refundable fee of $500,000 for a mobile license, according to the SWARC. However, it's important to note that the regulations have not been finalized yet, as further modifications can be made due to the public comments.
We're keeping an eye on the situation, and as soon as we've more updates, we'll share the news. Stay tuned!
At this point, some may wonder why we don't have a clear launch timeline for mobile betting in Maryland. Historically, the Maryland Lottery & Gaming Commission has sought public input for significant regulatory changes. However, as of June 2025, there's no announced end date for a public comment period on the proposed regulations.
In case you're curious, Class B retail licenses have two categories: Class B-1 (≥ 25 FTE or $3M annual gross receipts) and Class B-2 (≤ 24 FTE or < $3M annual gross receipts). Class B-1 applications carry a fee of $250,000, while Class B-2 applications require a fee of $50,000.
Industry bigwigs like FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and Barstool Sportsbook are already operational in Maryland at various retail sportsbook locations. DraftKings recently qualified for a Sports Wagering Facility Operator License.
Keep your fingers crossed, 'cause MD sports wagering enthusiasts might soon have more options!
Note: Mobile sports wagering in Maryland officially launched on November 23, 2022, and is currently operational with several online sportsbooks available. The state doesn't expect a future "launch" of mobile sports wagering, as the platform is already live and expanding.
- As the regulations for mobile sports wagering in Maryland are finalized, individuals may find themselves placing wagers on their favourite sports and teams using their mobile devices.
- For those eager to enter the sports betting market in Maryland, it's essential to remember that each mobile sports wagering license will require a non-refundable fee of $500,000.
- With the upcoming Super Bowl just around the corner, residents of Maryland hoping to place bets via their mobile devices might finally get their chance, provided the regulatory process is completed in time.
