The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) held a meeting last Friday for public comments regarding the proposed regulations on licensing process. However, the main concern raised in this meeting was the licensing fee.
In addition, SWARC is still open for mobile sports wagering license application and the Maryland mobile sports betting is on pace to launch before the end of the year.
Public Comment about Application Fee
The public meeting held last week focused on the testimony about the non-refundable $500,000 application fee. The CEO of Full Circle Solutions in Baltimore, Arthur Robinson, requested to make it refundable. Application fees being non-refundable are part of the legislation which was approved last year.
“Fees should be refunded if a license is not granted. This seems unfair.”
He also addressed a provision in the current regulation requiring soliciting and interviewing minority and women-owned businesses.
“The language ‘if applicable in efforts’ doesn’t seem to make it a requirement,” Robinson added.
The Commission will be accepting public comments about the proposed regulations until September 26 through the public comment form provided.
More Maryland Sports Betting Updates
Maryland Sports Betting Launch
Moreover, Gov. Larry Hogan had already given the green light for the mobile betting industry before the NFL kickoff last Thursday, September 8. As per his Twitter post last Tuesday:
“After having to overcome numerous bureaucratic hurdles from the legislature’s commission, we’re finally seeing some progress on mobile betting. I am going to keep holding everyone’s feet to the fire until this is up and running. Marylanders have waited long enough.”
Due to the recent development, Maryland mobile sportsbooks may be up and running before the year ends. However, it will still depend on the actions of Maryland regulators: The SWARC and Maryland Lottery and Gaming Commission.
Diversity Requirement
Regulators also recently approved a diversity requirement earlier this month. This requires companies to submit an action plan that addresses diversity issues. This requirement is retroactive and applicants who already secured a mobile wagering license have 30 days to comply.
