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HB 371

State Lottery - Courier Services - Licensure

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Ebersole

Maryland HB 371 requires state licensure for lottery courier services to regulate ticket delivery and winnings collection with safety and fraud-prevention standards.

Hearing 2/12 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 371

Legislative bill overview

HB 371 establishes a licensure framework for lottery courier services in Maryland, creating regulatory requirements for businesses that transport and deliver lottery tickets and winnings. The bill appears to formalize what may currently be an unregulated or loosely regulated activity by requiring couriers to obtain state licenses and comply with specified operational standards.

Why is this important

Lottery courier services operate in a gray area in many states, creating potential security, fraud, and consumer protection risks. Establishing clear licensure requirements protects lottery players by ensuring couriers meet safety standards, carry adequate insurance, and undergo background checks, while also protecting state lottery revenue and integrity.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry burden: Courier companies may argue licensing requirements create compliance costs and bureaucratic barriers to entry, potentially reducing service options or increasing consumer prices
  • Regulatory scope clarity: Questions may arise about which activities require licensure, how extensively the state will oversee operations, and what enforcement mechanisms exist for violations
  • Lottery monopoly concerns: Some may view courier regulation as protecting the state's lottery monopoly rather than addressing genuine consumer protection needs, or conversely, worry that inadequate regulation enables fraud

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

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