The expansion of Online Casinos across the United States has led many states to revisit their gaming regulations, especially as digital platforms become the preferred method for wagering. For residents of Maryland, online sports betting has already been legalized and launched, but the status of online casinos remains less clear.
This article provides a detailed evaluation of the current state of online casinos in Maryland, examining legal aspects, existing alternatives, and the prospects of future regulation. We also review what players should consider when navigating this evolving landscape.
Legal Overview: Are Online Casinos Legal in Maryland?
As of 2025, online casino gambling is not yet legal or regulated in Maryland.
While Maryland permits various forms of gambling such as land based casinos, sports betting, horse racing, and the state lottery internet based casino games like blackjack, slots, roulette, and online poker are not currently allowed under state law.
The Interactive Gambling landscape in Maryland is shaped by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC), which oversees gambling operations in the state. Any expansion into online casino gaming would require state legislative action and possibly a voter referendum, depending on the approach lawmakers take.
What Is Legal in Maryland’s Online Gambling Market?
Here is a breakdown of what online gambling is currently permitted in the state:
Online Sports Betting
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Fully legal since late 2022
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Regulated by MLGCC
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Platforms include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and BetRivers
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Players must be 21+ and physically located in Maryland
Online Horse Racing Betting
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Legal through platforms like TVG, TwinSpires, and Xpressbet
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Regulated separately under pari mutuel wagering laws
Fantasy Sports
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Permitted under existing gaming rules
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Offered by major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel
Online Casino Games
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Still illegal under Maryland law
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Includes slots, online roulette, live dealer games, and digital table games
Online Poker
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No legal, regulated poker sites are available
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Home poker games remain legal if no rake or fees are involved
Offshore Online Casinos: Are They Safe for Maryland Players?
Although online casinos are not licensed in Maryland, offshore online casinos continue to accept players from the state. These platforms are hosted and regulated in foreign jurisdictions (such as Curacao, Panama, or Malta), and operate in a legal gray area.
Risks of Using Offshore Casinos:
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No legal protection from Maryland authorities
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Limited accountability if disputes arise
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Uncertain payout reliability
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Possible violation of U.S. financial regulations
Players should be cautious when using unregulated sites, as there is no guarantee of fair play, data protection, or payment security.
Land-Based Casinos in Maryland: The Legal Alternative
While waiting for online options, residents can visit several fully licensed and regulated land based casinos across the state, including:
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MGM National Harbor – Located in Prince George’s County, one of the largest casinos in the region.
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Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland – Near BWI Airport, offers slots, table games, and a poker room.
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Horseshoe Casino Baltimore – Centrally located with full casino gaming and sportsbook options.
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Hollywood Casino Perryville and Ocean Downs Casino – Smaller but fully equipped with slot machines and sports betting lounges.
These venues offer safe, legal, and regulated environments for casino gaming.
Future of Online Casinos in Maryland
There has been growing interest among lawmakers and industry stakeholders in expanding Maryland’s iGaming offerings. Key motivators include:
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Revenue generation: Neighboring states like Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and New Jersey have generated substantial tax revenue from legal online casinos.
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Consumer demand: As sports betting grows online, so does interest in digital casino play.
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Market modernization: Offering online access complements existing physical casinos.
However, as of now, no active legislation has passed to legalize online casino gaming. It remains an ongoing conversation, with new bills likely to surface in upcoming legislative sessions.
What Should Maryland Players Look for in a Future Legal Online Casino?
When Maryland eventually legalizes online casinos, players should prioritize platforms that offer:
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State Licensing and Regulation
Look for casinos approved by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission. -
Game Variety
A full suite of slots, table games, live dealers, and specialty games should be available. -
Player Protection Tools
Features such as deposit limits, reality checks, and self-exclusion programs should be embedded in the platform. -
Transparent Bonuses
Promotions should be clearly explained with fair wagering requirements. -
Trusted Payment Methods
Availability of Visa/Mastercard, e-wallets, bank transfers, and possibly cryptocurrency, all with secure processing.
Conclusion
While Maryland has made significant strides in expanding online gambling through its sports betting framework, online casinos remain illegal at the state level. That said, the conversation around iGaming is gaining momentum, and future regulation seems increasingly likely as market demand and tax revenue potential continue to grow.
Until then, players should avoid unregulated offshore casinos and focus on legal, secure gambling options available in the state. By staying informed and playing responsibly, Maryland residents can enjoy saling silang gaming entertainment within the bounds of the law and prepare for what’s next in the evolving U.S. gambling landscape.