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MD HB1240

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/11/2026

Primary Sponsor

Kris Fair

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands the definition of "sporting event" under Maryland sports wagering law to include historical horse races, allowing pari-mutuel betting on previously run horse races of any breed

  • Authorizes only specific sports wagering facility licensees to accept historical horse race wagers: video lottery facilities, thoroughbred/standardbred race courses, Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, and satellite simulcast facilities—mobile wagering is prohibited

  • Caps the total number of historical horse race terminals statewide at 4,000, with wagering limited to Commission-approved designated areas and operating hours

  • Distributes proceeds from historical horse race wagering to local impact grants, the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, the Purse Dedication Account, the Small/Minority/Women-Owned Businesses Account, the General Fund (5%), and the Blueprint for Maryland's Future Fund

  • Requires voter approval through a referendum at the November 2026 general election before taking effect on January 1, 2027

Legislative Description

Sports Wagering - Wagers on Historical Horse Races - Authorization

Notices

Last Action

Reassigned to Ways and Means

2/17/2026

Committee Referrals

Ways and Means2/11/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available