Maryland's high tax rate on slot machines and reluctance to expand gambling have not only deprived the state of needed revenue, but have also nearly killed its horse-racing industry, according to the president of the American Gaming Association.
A special General Assembly session to discuss a potential casino in Prince George's County and statewide table games is not off the table, but some General Assembly members were unwilling to gamble on the final outcome of Gov. Martin O'Malley's efforts to resolve the gambling issues.
The chances of Maryland lawmakers spending next week in a special session shrank more on Thursday, as Gov. Martin O'Malley continued to focus his attention on the weather and fellow legislators remained as much in the dark about plans as some of their constituents did in their homes.
Gov. Martin O'Malley blasted House leaders Thursday for balking at a proposal to expand gambling, as lawmakers said they will keep working toward a possible compromise and special session this summer.
A consulting firm will present its findings Tuesday on the potential impact of expanded gambling in Maryland as lawmakers continue to discuss possible legislation to add table games and a sixth casino in the state.
Leading Maryland lawmakers have formed a task force to study the effect of a recent court ruling that classifies pit bulls as an "inherently dangerous" breed of dog.
A new state commission charged with crafting a bill to expand gambling in Maryland will have to overcome a short time frame and skepticism from House lawmakers.
One of the rituals of summer is the arrival of big-budget blockbuster films to your local neighborhood multiplex. Sequels are a huge source of revenue for Hollywood. Unfortunately, they are a big moneymaker for Maryland's ruling political establishment in Annapolis as well.
The Senate gave preliminary approval Monday to income tax increases that Democrats say will prevent more than $400 million in spending reductions and reduce the future gap between the state's revenues and expenses.
