A contentious debate is unfolding in the Maryland state legislature over allowing mobile casino games, pitting potential tax revenues against concerns over increased gambling addiction.
Several Democratic lawmakers are pushing bills to legalize mobile blackjack, poker, roulette and other table games that could be played on phones and computers statewide. They argue the move could haul in an extra $500 million annually.
“Mobile casino gaming is the natural next step to bolster state coffers while giving citizens more entertainment options,” said Del. Brian Frosh (D-Bethesda), chief sponsor of the House bill. “Most folks already use their devices for sports betting, so adding more game variety makes fiscal and practical sense.”
Frosh highlighted successful iGaming expansions in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and other neighboring states. “There’s tremendous undiscovered revenue potential here and we’d be foolish not to explore it,” he said.
However, longtime casino employees worry that increased mobile access to table games could further erode in-person gambling venues.
Deborah Mullins, a 10-year waitress at Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, has noticed fewer patrons since sports betting apps launched.
“On weekends, our table game area used to be buzzing until 3 or 4AM. Now it’s a ghost town by 11PM because people can just play blackjack on their couches instead,” Mullins said. “I’m worried about job security if more gets put online.”
The concerns are backed by research from the American Gaming Association showing a 17% decline in U.S. casino visitation rates after initial sports betting legalization. Industry leaders like MGM have also highlighted mobile gaming cannibalizing land-based revenue.
Beyond economic impacts, mental health experts fear a sharp rise in problem gambling if table games enter homes on apps.
“Having round-the-clock access to high-stakes casino entertainment on your phone poses grave addiction risks,” said Dr. Timothy Landers, a gambling therapist and professor at Johns Hopkins University. “It could trigger relapses for recovering addicts while roping in new vulnerable groups.”
Landers cited multiple studies linking increased gambling availability to higher addiction levels. “The convenience and privacy of mobile play removes critical barriers that protect at-risk individuals in public venues,” he said. “Lawmakers need to weigh public health costs against tax dollars.”
Polling suggests most Maryland residents support legalizing mobile casinos, but opposition lawmakers are unwilling to ignore the risks.
“While I understand the financial motivations, we cannot in good conscience open citizens to greater gambling harm,” said Sen. Heather Frost (R-Baltimore County). “I urge colleagues to prioritize well-being over revenues and vote down this legislation.”
The heated mobile casino debate continues in Annapolis committees as lawmakers grapple with balancing economic gains against social responsibility.
A recent poll about legalizing mobile casino gaming by USAcasinos247.com found that 75% of state residents endorse it, while 45% oppose the move. Supporters point to increased tax revenues and entertainment options, while opponents cite harm from gambling addiction. As lawmakers in Annapolis hear arguments from both sides, the future of expanded online gambling hangs in the balance.