The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC) is closer to issuing five retail sports betting licences to land-based casinos after the operators passed the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWAC) evaluation checks.
As reported by Gaming Today, MLGCC can only formally issue licenses after SWAC, one of the state’s regulatory boards, has awarded them beforehand.
Hollywood Casino Perryville, Ocean Downs, Horseshoe Casino, Live! Casino and Hotel, and MGM National Harbor were all awarded licences by SWAC this week following initial approval by MLGCC in October.
MLGCC is expected to give licensing authority and formally issue the licenses at its next monthly meeting.
The authority told Gaming Today in a statement: “After the SWARC formally awards the facility licences, the (Maryland Lottery and Gaming) staff will ensure that the licensees have finalised their systems of internal controls and satisfied other operational requirements before issuing licences.
“MLGCA staff are working with the applicants to expedite these tasks.”
As reported in October, Live! Casino & Hotel has opened a sports-themed lounge in preparation for its application approval, while MGM plans to open a venue for sports betting purposes later this month.
Meanwhile, the Horseshoe Casino is renovating its first floor to create “an immersive entertainment environment” that includes sports betting facilities amongst other gaming equipment.