In Maryland, there are 13 retail sportsbooks located in casinos and sports bars, as well as 12 approved sports betting apps. However, the majority of sports betting activity is taking place through mobile apps, accounting for over 95% of all wagering in May. While retail locations generated $12 million in bets and $131,000 in taxes for the state, mobile apps logged over $419 million in bets, contributing $6.8 million in taxes.
Despite the draw of the social experience and multiple screens showing live events at sportsbooks, many bettors are opting to stay at home and bet through their phones. This shift has impacted the expected tourism draw of retail sportsbooks in Maryland. Additionally, some individuals prefer using physical kiosks for responsible gaming purposes, rather than having a betting app on their phone.
Tax revenues from Maryland casinos go towards public education programs, with any expired prizes being directed to the state’s Problem Gambling Fund. Since the start of sports wagering in Maryland in December 2021, $3.1 million has been contributed to the Problem Gambling Fund. While sportsbooks continue to be important marketing draws for casinos and bars, the popularity of mobile apps has reshaped the landscape of sports betting in the state.
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