Senators Give Preliminary Approval To Gaming Bill

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The state Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill to expand Maryland gambling to include table games like blackjack and roulette.

The chamber passed the measure to its final voting stage Monday night after shooting down amendments that attempted to strip profit enhancements for casino owners and limit how many licenses a slots parlor operator can have.

The bill would pave the way for a sixth state casino license in Prince George's County and increase the amount of revenue slots parlor owners are allowed to keep by 8 percent. If a sixth casino license is awarded, that share would increase by another 7 percent.

If the Legislature passes the bill, it will have to be ratified by a majority of Maryland voters.

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