MD HB1343

Authorizes the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to issue internet gaming licenses to video lottery operators, certain sports wagering facility license holders, and qualified applicants meeting specific criteria (10+ years Maryland headquarters, 250+ employees, $1 million initial license fee)

Requires voter approval through a November 2026 referendum asking whether to expand commercial gaming to authorize internet gaming for education revenue purposes

Distributes gaming proceeds to multiple funds: Blueprint for Maryland's Future Fund (education), Problem Gambling Fund (1%), local jurisdictions for education (1%), Purse Dedication Account ($4.9-8.7 million annually FY2028-2032), and a new Video Lottery Facility Employee Displacement Fund (up to $10 million in first year)

Establishes social equity requirements mandating at least 5% ownership by social equity applicants, with priority licensing rounds for applicants demonstrating 33% ownership by social equity applicants; defines eligibility criteria based on residence in economically disadvantaged areas and personal net worth limits

Requires responsible gambling protections including mandatory deposit limits, voluntary exclusion lists, prohibition on credit card use, 21+ age verification, and annual reporting on problem gambling impacts by the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling