Mobile Sports Betting Launch in Maryland Could Hasten with Regulatory Tweak

Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission members heard on Thursday that they could make online sports betting available sooner if they award licenses on a rolling basis. Up to 60 mobile betting licenses are up for grabs in Maryland. If regulators receive fewer than 60 applications for those permits, they can start awarding some to qualified applicants.

SWARC members approved a motion on Thursday. Commission will start processing applications for online-wagering permits when they arrive. If the number of applications falls short of 60, commission could start giving operators a key approval in a month or two. Public comment period on proposed regulations is until Monday.

SWARC opened its 45-day application window for mobile sports betting licenses back on September 6. The commission may need as many as 45 more days to review applications. Background investigations are required for licensing. Maryland has seven brick-and-mortar sportsbooks open. Governor has pushed for the state's mobile betting to be up and running in time for NFL season.