Md. General Assembly OKs gambling expansion bill

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland General Assembly has passed a measure that would allow a casino to be built in Prince George's County, just miles from the nation's capital.

The state Senate early Wednesday approved the measure after changes were made late Tuesday by the House of Delegates. The legislation now goes to Gov. Martin O'Malley, who called the special session on gambling to raise revenue and create jobs.

Some favor locating the new casino at National Harbor, a major development down the Potomac River from Washington. Voters several years ago approved five casino sites, and a major new casino recently opened in Anne Arundel County.

The measure would also allow casinos to be open 24 hours and permit tables games such as poker and roulette. The bill reduces the state's high tax on slots at two casino sites to offset the financial impact of the future Prince George's County casino.

Voters would have to approve the gambling expansion in November.