In the recently concluded Fiscal Year 2024, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming reported a significant contribution of $1.585 billion to state-funded programs, slightly under the previous year’s record of $1.589 billion. This year’s figures reflect the vital role played by the state’s gambling operations, including casinos, sportsbooks, and daily fantasy sports operators, in supporting various public services and initiatives.
The revenue, accrued from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, was dispersed across several key sectors. Casino gaming led with contributions of $824 million, followed by Lottery profits at $699.6 million, and combined sports wagering and daily fantasy sports contributions totaling $61.3 million. This collective effort averaged a daily contribution of $4.3 million to Maryland’s good causes.
Despite a slight downturn from last year’s peak, Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin expressed satisfaction with the performance. “We had an exceptional performance in Fiscal Year 2023, so we came into FY2024 facing a challenging year-over-year comparison,” Martin said. “Nonetheless, we had another strong year on a number of fronts. The Lottery added a new daily game, and the sports wagering market continued to expand. We’re proud of our role in generating funds for important state programs.”
Traditional lottery sales slightly decreased by 1.2% to $2.732 billion. However, scratch-off ticket sales remained robust, crossing the $1 billion threshold for the third consecutive year. The profits from these ticket sales were primarily funneled into the state’s General Fund, which supports a broad range of state programs, including education, public health, and safety initiatives. Throughout the fiscal year, lottery players claimed over $1.715 billion in prizes, with significant winnings including 33 prizes of at least $1 million.
On May 6, 2024, the Lottery launched its first new draw game since February 2022, called Cash Pop, adding to its existing portfolio of 11 draw games and numerous scratch-off and Fast Play instant games.
Casino operations also reported a strong year, though revenues from slot machines and table games saw a 4.7% dip from FY2023, totaling $1.964 billion. The majority of the casino-generated funds, specifically $600.7 million, supported the Education Trust Fund, enhancing various educational initiatives across the state.
Additionally, the casino sector contributed significantly to local communities, the state’s horse racing industry, and programs supporting small, minority, and women-owned businesses, along with responsible gaming initiatives.
Maryland’s sports wagering scene, including both retail and mobile platforms, expanded significantly, contributing $60.3 million to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, aimed at supporting educational programs. This marked a notable increase, reflecting the first full fiscal year with mobile wagering options available.
In summary, Maryland Lottery and Gaming’s contributions in FY2024 have underscored its continued impact on funding essential state programs and initiatives, reinforcing its role in the state’s financial ecosystem.
