Legislators in the Mid-Atlantic racing regions of Maryland and Virginia are set to deliberate on a proposal that would permit online casino gaming within the states. According to a report from igamingbusiness.com, a proposal allowing online wagering has been pre-filed in each state.
In Maryland, HB 17 is expected to be officially presented on Jan. 8, as indicated by IGB, which would enable iGaming regulated by the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission. The tax revenue generated from iGaming would be allocated for educational purposes.
IGB notes that a comparable measure passed the house last year but failed to proceed to the Senate floor due to legislators’ apprehensions regarding the potential adverse effects of online gambling on physical casinos.
Maryland’s retail casinos provide video lottery terminals as well as approved table games. Taxes imposed on VLTs within the state support Maryland racing, with 6% allocated to purses and 1% designated for the maintenance and enhancement of track facilities.
A pre-filed measure in Virginia aims to legalize online casino gaming within the state, inclusive of live-dealer games. IGB mentions that operators would be subjected to a tax rate of 15% on adjusted gross revenue.
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In Virginia, historical horse racing at physical establishments has contributed to a revival in racing at Colonial Downs, which, since its reopening in 2019, has consistently boosted purses and added race dates.