Maryland sports betting bills likely to go to ballot, supporters say
Supporters of sports betting bills in Annapolis predict it's a safe wager that lawmakers will put the topic on the November 2020 ballot.
Acme Bar and Grill in Annapolis is a popular place to watch sports -- tennis, golf, soccer, football, basketball and more are all on TV all day and night. Some patrons said the only thing missing is the opportunity to legally bet on professional games and matches.
"We all love sports, we all watch sports, we all tend to bet. Why not cash in on it?" said Vernon Ashlock, who supports sports betting.
"My opinion is, don't let the money go to other states. Why should we give it to Delaware or anywhere else? You know what I mean?" said Jack Nesbitt, who supports sports betting.
There are several sports betting bills under consideration in Annapolis, but they differ on what type of venue should host it.
Casinos are the right place, according to Montgomery County state Sen. Craig Zucker. His measure allows casinos to partner with online sports book operators. Much of the betting that takes place around the country is done on laptops and other mobile devices.
"This is really sort of the next phase of gaming, when you are looking at millennials and making it more accessible to the modern age of Marylanders," Zucker said.
Horse racing venues, like Pimlico Race Course, make more sense to Delegate Eric Ebersole, who represents portions of Baltimore and Howard counties.
"This gives people more locations to do it. We also think it will increase our revenue," Ebersole said.
Ebersole's bill sets up a structure to allow sports betting to begin immediately, if voters say yes. That way, bettors don't have to wait for the General Assembly to act next year.
At least two bills funnel 20% of sports betting revenue to the Education Trust Fund. Lawmakers and business owners see this as a win-win.
"I think it's great that Maryland is finally taking the opportunity to allow sports betting, whether it's in the bars or establishments that they have already decided on," said Bernie O'Brien, general manager of Acme Bar and Grill.
Senate bills will be heard in committee Wednesday. House measures come up for a hearing early next month.
