Baltimore, January 16, 2026
Maryland has designated $85.8 million from sports gambling tax revenues to enhance public education and community programs. Key allocations include $60 million for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, aimed at improving education, alongside funding for responsible gaming and minority business support. The recent increase in mobile sports betting tax rates significantly boosted state revenue, enabling this investment in essential services without raising betting volumes.
Maryland Allocates $85.8 Million Sports Gambling Tax Windfall to Education and Public Services
Baltimore, MD — The state of Maryland has announced a significant allocation of $85.8 million from sports gambling tax revenues, earmarking the funds to bolster public education and community programs. This financial boost comes in the wake of a rise in mobile sports betting tax rates, which increased from 15% to 20% in June 2025. The adjustment has resulted in a substantial uptick in state revenue without necessitating any increase in betting volume.
Breakdown of Allocated Funds
The $85.8 million windfall has been strategically allocated to several key areas:
- Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund: $60 million
- General Fund: $5 million
- Problem Gambling Fund: $6.2 million
- Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund: $1.3 million
These allocations are aimed at enhancing educational initiatives, supporting responsible gaming, assisting small businesses, and providing resources for problem gambling prevention.
Impact on Public Education
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, which receives the largest share of the allocation, is focused on improving public education throughout the state. By funding early childhood education, K–12 schools, and construction projects, this initiative ensures that Maryland students are equipped with quality educational resources and facilities.
Responsible Gaming and Community Support
Allocations towards the Problem Gambling Fund and the Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund highlight Maryland’s commitment to responsible gaming practices and economic development. These funds serve to support individuals grappling with gambling-related issues and to assist small businesses within the gaming sector.
Background on Maryland’s Sports Gambling Tax Revenue
In the fiscal year 2025, Maryland’s sports wagering market generated a total of $88.9 million in contributions to the state, a significant increase from the previous year’s $60.3 million. This growth can be attributed to the ascent of mobile sports betting and the aforementioned tax rate adjustment. The comprehensive gaming industry, encompassing casinos, lottery, and sports wagering, collectively contributed approximately $1.6 billion to Maryland’s treasury, reinforcing the state’s dedication to enhancing public services through gaming tax revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much did Maryland allocate from sports gambling tax revenue?
Maryland allocated $85.8 million from sports gambling tax revenue to support public education and community programs.
What are the main beneficiaries of this allocation?
The main beneficiaries include the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, the General Fund, the Problem Gambling Fund, and the Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Sports Wagering Assistance Fund.
How has the mobile sports betting tax rate changed?
In June 2025, Maryland increased the mobile sports betting tax rate from 15% to 20%, significantly boosting state revenue without requiring an increase in betting volume.
What is the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund?
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund is dedicated to improving public education across the state, supporting early childhood education, K–12 schools, and school construction projects.
How much did Maryland’s sports wagering market contribute in fiscal year 2025?
Maryland’s sports wagering market contributed $88.9 million in fiscal year 2025, up from $60.3 million in the previous year.
Key Features of Maryland’s Sports Gambling Tax Allocation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount Allocated | $85.8 million |
| Primary Beneficiary | Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund |
| Tax Rate Increase | Mobile sports betting tax rate increased from 15% to 20% in June 2025 |
| Fiscal Year 2025 Contribution | $88.9 million from sports wagering, up from $60.3 million in FY2024 |
| Education Funding | Over $696 million directed to education programs in FY2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Maryland’s Sports Wagering Industry Achieves Record Contributions
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
