Most Local Legislators Voted Against Gambling Bill
A tally of the unofficial votes revealed that House Speaker Michael Busch was the only legislator from the Annapolis area to support expanded gaming.
When the votes came in late last night to expand gaming in Maryland, most of Annapolis legislators were in the "no" camp.
After hours of debate and several failed amendments Tuesday night, the House of Delegates voted in favor of expanded gaming in Maryland 71 to 58—the minimum needed to pass a bill.
Democratic House Speaker Michael Busch was the only state legislator representing Annapolis to vote for the new law, which would allow for a new casino in Prince George's County and live table games at all casinos in the state.
Delegates Herbert McMillian and Ron George, both Republicans from District 30, voted against the bill.
The Senate passed the House's amended gaming bill early Wednesday morning by a vote of 32 to 14 in spite of Sen. John Astle's (D-District 30) no vote.
Before Annapolitans can chat with a blackjack dealer at Maryland Live!, voters must approve the expansion of gaming at the ballot in November.