MLGCC approves 11 entities as sports betting expected to start ‘soon’

MLGCC approves 11 entities ahead of sports betting launch
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The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC) has approved the qualification of 10 businesses seeking sports betting licences as the launch date draws ever nearer.

Furthermore, according to PressBoxOnline, the MLGCC has approved one business seeking a Class B facility licence.

The journey towards sports betting in the state has been an arduous one, but there has been renewed optimism in recent weeks that it will officially roll out before the end of the year, possibly at the start of December.

Last month, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) approved the application process for mobile and class B facility sports betting licences.

Businesses and individuals were given a 45-day window to submit their applications, with SWARC then having 45 days to grant licences.

Progress has now been made after the MLGCC issued its approval to 11 entities, consisting of; Bingo World, BetMGM, Draft Kings, Caesars, Greenmount Station, Live! Casino and Hotel, Long Shot’s, Maryland Stadium Sub, Hollywood Casino, Riverboat on the Potomac (all sports betting licences) and Long Shot’s Hagerstown (Class B facility licence).

These entities have all been approved after background checks conducted by the MLGCC, which determines whether they demonstrated the honesty, integrity, good character and financial stability to be qualified for a sports betting licence.

The next step for these 11 entities is expected to come in November when SWARC meets to consider their applications for licence awards.

SWARC evaluates applicants’ suitability and determines whether awarding a licence to an applicant is in the public interest, while there are also checks into marketing plans and ownership structures of the business entities.

“We’re pleased that we advanced the process today, but of course the work continues,” said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin.

“We’re also very happy to see such a varied group of businesses become part of this emerging market in Maryland.”

As businesses await SWARC’s licence awards, they are working with MLGCC staff to fulfil operational requirements.

“There is still a flurry of activity ahead of us over the next couple of weeks, but we’re going to see the first mobile wagers placed in Maryland soon,” added Martin.

“We know sports fans have been eagerly awaiting that opportunity, and we’re almost there.”