The Maryland Lottery provides an opportunity for individuals to play for prizes. Tickets are sold at licensed retail locations in Maryland. Winning tickets can be redeemed for up to $25,000 at casinos in the state.
The lottery is regulated by the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. Its eight units oversee the game, conduct promotional campaigns, and monitor retail establishments for compliance. They also administer responsible gambling programs.
The state’s law requires that minors be 18 years old to buy and redeem tickets. This is in addition to the age requirement for pari-mutuel betting and bingo. If an adult sells a ticket to a minor, they are liable for a civil fine.
The lottery’s rules are designed to keep players safe. Underage players are prohibited from receiving prizes. And the maximum fine for a civil violation is $200.
A centralized computer system allows the lottery jurisdiction to track gameplay and collect revenue. Each video lottery terminal is connected to the centralized computer system.
Many video lottery terminals are stand-alone devices that contain random number generators. Local laws may govern how these machines operate.
The lottery’s revenue is deposited into a fund called the State Lottery Fund. The remaining revenue is deposited into the State General Fund. In addition to the tax on games, the State Lottery receives revenues from an admission tax and an amusement tax.
In 2022, the lottery and gaming funds represented 27% of state funding. The Legislature has allocated a portion of the lottery tax to seven state arts agencies.