Maryland HB 518 Advances Stricter Betting Rules

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Last Update: Fri Mar 20, 2026, 9:18 am ET

Read Time: 3 minutes

Maryland HB 518 Advances Stricter Betting Rules

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Maryland lawmakers are moving to reshape the state's sports betting landscape by passing House Bill 518 (HB 518). 

On March 19, 2026, the House of Delegates passed HB 518, advancing a sweeping proposal to strengthen consumer protections and safeguard athletic integrity. The measure represents one of the most comprehensive regulatory updates since Maryland launched legal sports wagering.

HB 518: Key Provisions Target College Prop Bets and Betting Controls

HB 518 introduces several significant changes to existing gambling laws. Most notably, it formally bans player-specific proposition bets on college athletes. As a result, bettors would no longer be able to wager on individual performances, such as points scored or touchdowns in collegiate games.

Importantly, the bill does not prohibit all college sports betting. Wagers on overall game outcomes, which includes point spreads, moneylines, and totals, would remain fully legal under Maryland law.

Lawmakers and regulators have increasingly raised concerns about player prop wagers. Critics argue they can expose student-athletes to harassment and increase integrity risks. 

Maryland regulators had already taken steps to restrict such bets in 2024. HB 518 now seeks to codify that policy into state law.

In addition, the bill addresses how players fund their accounts. It prohibits the use of credit cards for sports wagering deposits. Supporters say this change is designed to reduce the risks associated with gambling on borrowed funds.

The legislation also strengthens responsible gaming requirements for all US online sportsbooks operating in the state. Operators must require users to set deposit and time limits before placing their first wager. Previously, these tools were generally optional. Under HB 518, they would become a standard part of the onboarding process.

Aligning Policy With Regulatory Priorities

The bill reflects ongoing coordination between lawmakers and the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. By embedding these protections into law, the state aims to create a more consistent and enforceable regulatory framework.

HB 518 also includes provisions for anonymized data sharing with academic institutions. This initiative is intended to support research into gambling behavior and inform future policy decisions.

Following its passage in the House, the bill now heads to the Maryland Senate for further consideration, where it has been referred to the Budget and Taxation Committee. The measure has also received backing from public health advocates, including the Maryland-DC Society of Addiction Medicine, underscoring its focus on responsible gambling.

Lawmakers accelerated the bill's progress in response to growing concerns about athlete welfare and responsible gambling. Most provisions are expected to take effect on July 1, 2026, if the measure becomes law.

Potential Impact on Maryland's Betting Market

If enacted, HB 518 could prompt notable changes across Maryland gambling, namely, its online betting industry. Operators will need to adjust their platforms to incorporate mandatory limit-setting tools and comply with new funding restrictions.

These updates may lead to short-term shifts in betting activity, particularly as credit card deposits are phased out. However, supporters believe the long-term benefits will outweigh any initial disruption.

By prioritizing consumer safeguards and athlete protections, Maryland is positioning itself as a more tightly regulated market. Industry stakeholders across the US are likely to monitor the rollout closely, as similar measures could gain traction in other states.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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