Senate approves bill for online lottery subscription sales in retail stores

The Budget and Taxation Committee of the Maryland General Assembly convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to a bill concerning online lottery subscription sales. The primary focus of the meeting was to evaluate the implications of allowing retailers to sell vouchers for lottery subscription plans.

The committee began by addressing the amended bill, which permits the Maryland Lottery to offer subscription plans for popular games such as Mega Millions and Cash for Life online. This change aims to streamline the purchasing process for consumers, allowing them to sign up for subscriptions ranging from 13 to 52 weeks without the need for physical paperwork. Currently, players must print forms and send them with payment, but the new system would enable online management of subscriptions.

Julianne Fiastro from the Maryland Lottery explained that each subscription would cover one ticket per draw, and players could hold multiple subscriptions if they desired more tickets. The bill limits subscriptions to four specific games, excluding instant games, which are often favored by problem gamblers due to their immediacy. The committee noted that this advance purchase model could help mitigate gambling issues by reducing impulsive buying behaviors.

Discussion also touched on the financial aspects for retailers. The amended bill allows convenience stores and other retailers to sell vouchers at the time of sale, ensuring that customers have cash in hand. Retailers will benefit from a commission on subscription renewals for up to 24 months, providing them with a continued revenue stream.

The committee unanimously supported the bill, indicating no opposition to the proposed changes. The meeting concluded with a vote in favor of the legislation, reflecting a consensus on the potential benefits of modernizing lottery sales in Maryland. The next steps will involve further legislative processes to finalize the implementation of these changes.