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HB 195

State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission - Authority to Conduct Studies on the Use of Emerging Technology and the Workgroup on Gambling Prevention Technology

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pam Queen

Authorizes Maryland's gaming commission to study emerging technologies and collaborate on gaming research, expanding its role from regulation to forward-looking analysis.

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Bill Summary · HB 195

Legislative bill overview

HB 195 grants Maryland's State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission authority to conduct studies on emerging technologies and collaborate with other entities on gaming-related research and development. The bill expands the Commission's investigative powers beyond its traditional regulatory role to include forward-looking technological assessment.

Why is this important

As gaming technology evolves rapidly—including online platforms, blockchain-based systems, and AI-driven player analytics—regulatory agencies need formal authority to study these developments before they proliferate in the market. This bill positions Maryland to make informed policy decisions about emerging gaming technologies rather than reacting after problems occur.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: "Emerging technology" is undefined, potentially giving the Commission broad discretionary authority to study virtually any gaming-adjacent innovation without legislative oversight
  • Funding mechanism: The bill doesn't specify how studies will be funded or whether costs will be absorbed by the Commission's existing budget or require appropriations, raising fiscal concerns
  • Collaboration details: The bill lacks guardrails around which entities the Commission can partner with, potentially creating conflicts of interest if private gaming companies influence research outcomes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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