Maryland2026Active
HB0046
Gambling Prevention Technology Pilot Program
Last scannedAug 22, 2026, 4:24 AM
In one sentence
This law creates a test program to use technology that stops online sports betting on college campuses in Maryland.
What it does
- The State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission starts the Gambling Prevention Technology Pilot Program.
- Bowie State University and Morgan State University must join this pilot program.
- The Commission, with help from universities and experts, will mark specific areas on campuses as no-gambling zones.
- Online sports betting companies must use technology to block access within these marked zones if someone tries to bet there.
- If a person tries to bet inside a blocked zone, the system stops them and shows a warning with help resources.
Who it affects
- The State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission
- Bowie State University students and staff
- Morgan State University students and staff
- Online sports betting companies operating in Maryland
Limits and unknowns
- The law does not say exactly how long it will take to set up the technology.
- If technology fails in an unexpected way, online sports betting companies cannot be fined or punished for that failure.
- This program ends on June 30, 2031 unless new laws are passed.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Geofence
- A virtual perimeter around a physical location.
- No Gambling Zone
- A specific area on a college campus where betting is not allowed during the pilot program.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Establishing the Gambling Prevention Technology Pilot Program in the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission; requiring Bowie State University and Morgan State University to participate in the Pilot Program; requiring the Commission, in collaboration with certain entities, to designate certain no gambling zones on each campus, develop certain informational signage, and identify and implement certain technologies; and requiring the Commission to submit a report on the Pilot Program on or before January 1, 2031.
Official activity
Bill history
- In the House - Unfavorable Report by Ways and Means; Withdrawn