Mobile sports betting took a step closer to launch when the Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) published regulations in the Maryland Register, according to Sports Handle.
The regulations refer to the approval of up to 60 mobile sports wagering licenses, as well as some 30 Class B retail licenses for sports betting operations across the state.
The publication triggers a 30-day comment period about the proposed regulations, ending on September 26. All written comments submitted during the period will be published on Swarc.org. Regulations may change following the comment period.
When ready, SWARC will conduct a detailed licensing process for mobile sports wagering.
All licensing applicants must apply to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission, which investigates the applicant to ensure it meets “qualification” requirements, such as good character and financial stability. SWARC decides whether qualified applicants receive a license.
Because of delays earlier this year, wagers may not be ready to go until just prior to Super Bowl week.
License fees for mobile applicants are $500,000. Class B-1 licenses are for businesses with 25 or more full-time employees, or those with more than $3 million in annual gross receipts. License applications in the B-1 category carry a non-refundable fee of $250,000. Class B-2 licenses are for small businesses with 24 or fewer full-time employees or less than $3 million in annual gross receipts. Those license applications require a non-refundable fee of $50,000.
