Online Sports Wagering - Problem Gambling Resources - Required Contact Information
Summary
SB86 requires mobile sports wagering licensees in Maryland to display problem-gambling contact information prominently on the homepage landing page of both their online sports wagering websites and mobile applications. The required notice must say, in substance, “If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, click here or call 1-800-GAMBLER for help,” or other comparable language approved by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission. The bill also requires that the “click here” link direct users to the website of the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling.
The bill amends the State Government Article provisions governing online sports wagering by adding a new responsible-gambling disclosure requirement to the list of obligations for mobile sports wagering licensees. It does not change wagering eligibility rules, tax rates, or licensing structure, but it does impose a specific consumer-information mandate on operators. The act takes effect October 1, 2025.
Impact
SB86 updates Section 9-1E-11 of the State Government Article to require a prominent responsible-gambling message and a direct link to the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling on mobile sports wagering platforms. This creates a new compliance obligation for online sports wagering licensees and gives the Commission authority to approve comparable language. The practical effect is to strengthen consumer access to problem-gambling resources without otherwise altering the underlying legal framework for sports wagering in Maryland.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support for the bill: it passed the Senate on third reading by a unanimous 46-0 vote. The committee report was favorable with amendments, indicating support for the bill’s purpose while allowing for some refinement. No committee transcript is available, but the legislative record points to a generally positive reception centered on responsible gambling and consumer protection.
Contention
There is little evidence of major controversy in the available materials. The main policy issue is the scope and placement of the required warning and link, including whether the exact wording should be mandatory or whether comparable language approved by the Commission should be allowed. Any concern would likely come from sports wagering operators facing additional website and app compliance requirements, while supporters would emphasize easier access to gambling-help resources and problem-gambling prevention.