Maryland’s gaming landscape witnessed notable developments in September, with sports betting and casino revenues taking center stage. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) released key figures detailing the performance of the state’s sports betting industry and its casinos.
Sports Betting in Maryland:
In September, Maryland’s sports betting sector experienced significant activity. With 13 retail sportsbooks and 12 mobile sports betting platforms, the total handle for the month amounted to an impressive $442.4 million. Notably, mobile wagering dominated, contributing 95.1% of the total handle, reaching $420.9 million. Meanwhile, retail sportsbooks accounted for $21.5 million in bets.
State Tax Contributions:
Sports betting operators in Maryland made a substantial contribution to the state’s finances, with $3.2 million in state taxes. Under Maryland’s tax structure, each sportsbook allocates 15% of its taxable win to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund. This fund supports various public education programs. For the month, mobile wagering contributed $2.8 million, while retail sportsbooks contributed $342,859. The total taxable win was $21.5 million, with online sports betting generating $19.2 million.
Growth of the Sports Betting Market:
The expansion of Maryland’s sports wagering market continued with the opening of a 13th retail location. Canton Gaming, in partnership with Parx Interactive, launched a sportsbook at The Greene Turtle in Towson on September 29. This expansion reflects the increasing demand for sports betting options in the state.
Contributions to State Programs:
Since the inception of Maryland’s sports wagering program in December 2021, the cumulative contribution to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund reached an impressive $37.2 million. Additionally, contributions to the Problem Gambling Fund, derived from expired prizes, amounted to $2.5 million, underscoring the state’s commitment to responsible gaming.
Casino Revenues in September:
In parallel with sports betting, Maryland’s six casinos reported their gaming revenues for September. While the total revenue reached $155 million, it represented a 2.6% decrease compared to September 2022. MGM National Harbor led the pack with $61.7 million in revenue, followed closely by Live! Casino & Hotel, with revenues of $58.4 million. The other four casinos—Horseshoe Casino, Ocean Downs Casino, Hollywood Casino, and Rocky Gap Casino—contributed to the overall gaming revenue.
Casino Offerings:
Maryland’s privately owned casinos offer a mix of slot machines and table games, providing a diverse range of gaming options for patrons.
The data from Maryland’s sports betting and casino sectors for September demonstrates the ongoing growth and evolution of the state’s gaming industry. Sports betting is rapidly gaining popularity, with significant contributions to the state’s finances, particularly for education programs and responsible gaming initiatives. Meanwhile, the state’s casinos continue to be a vital component of Maryland’s gaming landscape, contributing to both entertainment and revenue generation. These developments are poised to shape the future of gaming in Maryland, with continued expansion and innovative offerings on the horizon.