Maryland has been in the gambling scene for a long time mainly with its slot machines and lottery. Table games are something that has been restricted in the state. Table games include games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps. These games operate in such a manner that a dealer is required at one end of the table while gamers are at the other end. They are big hit with gamers and are the most sought after in most casinos. Table games are still not legal in many states in the US despite their popularity. In Maryland too, table games are yet to be legalized. This is however expected to change soon.
The Table Games Legalization Bill
Early in 2011, the State Senator, Kathy Klausmeier, introduced a bill to legalize table games in the state. According to her, Maryland has a competitive disadvantage, when it comes to gambling and the bill would help eliminate the disadvantage. By competitive disadvantage, she is mainly referring to gamers in the state moving to the neighboring states to play table games. The bill, if passed, could introduce table games in Maryland by the year 2012. There are some hurdles that need to be cleared before the bill is passed.
Hurdles To Be Crossed
A very serious and unfortunate hurdle is the fact that the Governor of Maryland is opposed to the bill. His main argument is that the state should first complete the opening of the remaining slot casinos before it ventures into table games. Another reason for the opposition is the fact that slot machines are more profitable than table games which require more staff and more security than slot machines. One fact that is being overlooked is that having table games in casinos is a great way to lure crowds as they are more challenging and fun than slot machines.
For the bill to pass, it requires the support of the Governor and the Speaker. After the bill is passed, it is due to be placed before the voters for voting in 2012. Voters need to approve the bill through a referendum. There is certainly hope for the bill once it reaches the voters. These same voters had earlier approved a bill that allowed 15000 slot machines to be put up in different parts of Maryland. The bill is coupled with another bill that aims to set certain rules and standards that casinos would have to follow when gaming tables are introduced.
Advantages Of The Bill
The passing of the bill will offer several advantages. The most important of them is that it would help reduce the state debt to a great extent by bringing in more revenue. This would also mean more money in the hands of the state to improve the local infrastructure. This stems from the fact that gaming tables are a more attractive lure for gamers than slots. It would also increase the state’s competitive advantage with other gambling states and attract more local traffic. Another advantage seen is the increase in jobs as table games require more staff to run them.
The legalization of table games in Maryland is still a long way off. The first step is getting the approval of the Governor and the Speaker. Only after this, is the bill likely to be passed.