Maryland Constitution Article XIX - Video Lottery Terminals
Here is the text and summary of Article XIX – Video Lottery Terminals of the Maryland Constitution:
Maryland Constitution – Article XIX
Title: Video Lottery Terminals
Section 1. Authorization and regulation of video lottery terminals
(a) Purpose:
To authorize and regulate the operation of video lottery terminals (VLTs) in Maryland in order to raise revenue for public education, horse racing industry, and small businesses.
(b) Authorization:
The General Assembly may authorize up to 15,000 video lottery terminals across no more than six locations in the State.
(c) Licensing Requirements:
Licenses may be awarded only to those who meet strict qualifications regarding financial integrity and moral character. Certain restrictions apply to location and number of terminals.
(d) Prohibited Locations:
No VLTs allowed:
In counties that did not approve them by referendum.
Within certain distances from racetracks, schools, or churches (unless exemptions apply).
Section 2. Allocation of revenues
(a) Distribution:
The proceeds from video lottery terminals are distributed as follows:
Education Trust Fund – significant portion goes to public education.
Licensees – for operation costs and returns.
Horse racing purses and industry – to support and revitalize Maryland’s horse racing industry.
Local impact grants – for jurisdictions hosting the facilities.
Small, minority, and woman-owned businesses – a portion supports loans and investments.
(b) Restrictions:
Funds for education must supplement, not replace, existing education funding.
Section 3. Implementation
The General Assembly is responsible for enacting laws to carry out and enforce the provisions of Article XIX.
Summary
Article XIX was added by voter approval (referendum) to allow Maryland to operate and regulate video lottery terminals (a form of slot machine gambling), with strict limitations on location, licensing, and revenue use. Its primary goals are to:
Increase funding for public schools,
Support the horse racing industry,
Assist small, minority, and women-owned businesses.
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