The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) in Maryland has decided to allow for the rolling approval of online sportsbook licenses, instead of a universal start date for all sportsbooks.
Originally anticipated for a 2023 launch, the rolling approval could see mobile sports betting in the state arrive much earlier.
The commission has recently opened its application process for online sports betting and Class B facility sports betting licenses, allowing operators to begin receiving approval.
Businesses and individuals pursuing licensing need to submit an application to be considered by October 21, 2022. The commission may take up to 45 days to consider applications and potentially find them qualified for a license.
With the latest approvals, online sports betting could be launched by late November or early December.
If licenses are awarded by the commission, operators must complete regulatory testing requirements and a successful controlled demonstration for Maryland Lottery and Gaming before receiving licensing and launching online sports betting in the state.
It's important to note that the Maryland sports betting bill caps online sports betting licenses at 60 in the state.
It's expected that the SWARC will quickly approve licenses for sportsbooks such as Barstool, FanDuel, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook and PointsBet. These online operators have already obtained approval from the commission and Maryland Lottery and Gaming for their retail sports betting services.
Maryland citizens voted to approve sports betting back in November of 2020, and the first five sportsbooks opened the following year in December 2021.
Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency Chief Operating Officer, Jim Nielsen, said: "Staff hopes Marylanders can bet on the Super Bowl on a mobile platform."
