Maryland agency outlines self-exclusion options, says problem‑gambling funds and outreach continue to evolve
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Summary
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency described its voluntary self‑exclusion program, monthly reporting of participation, coordination with health agencies for fund disbursement, and challenges reaching at‑risk groups such as college students.
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency told the Ways and Means Committee that problem‑gambling prevention and treatment remain central to its regulatory work, with the state’s problem‑gambling fund managed by the Maryland Department of Health.
Director John Martin said by statute some casino operator provisions and expired sports‑wagering prizes contribute to the problem‑gambling fund and the Department of Health disburses those monies. "The funds ... are managed by the Maryland Department of Health," Martin said.
Martin described voluntary self‑exclusion programs the agency operates across lottery, casino gaming and sports wagering, and said the commission provides monthly reports with updated enrollment numbers. He explained that participants may self‑exclude "in perpetuity" or for a two‑year period; after two years, an individual must apply to be removed and demonstrate counseling or other evidence before being reinstated.
Committee members asked whether outreach targets college students and other at‑risk populations. Martin said the agency posts lists of legal providers and runs education efforts, but acknowledged the difficulty of cutting through broad marketing and celebrity promotion. He noted the agency partners with the University of Maryland School of Medicine Center of Excellence and other service providers for referrals and support.
On contributions to the problem‑gambling fund, Martin said expired retail tickets once generated more funds but that mobile wagering now accounts for roughly 97% of wagers, reducing the role of "expired prizes" in sports wagering revenue.
The committee asked for additional data; Martin said the monthly commission reports and the agency website provide trend information and numbers of people enrolled in self‑exclusion programs.
