started · updated
Maryland reports strong FY2026 fiscal results and sports betting growth
Maryland has reported significant fiscal developments for 2026. The state closed fiscal year 2026 with a $1.052 billion General Fund balance, driven by $28.06 billion in total revenues, a 9.1% increase over the previous year. Personal income tax collections rose to $15.87 billion, fueled by a 20% increase in nonwage income.
In the sports wagering sector, Maryland saw a 36.3% increase in betting volume in July 2026, with a total handle of $496.4 million. This activity generated $8.45 million for the state, up from $7.25 million in July 2025. For the full fiscal year 2026, sports wagering contributed $132.3 million to state funds, including $99.7 million to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund.
Nationally, the American Gaming Association (AGA) projects $29.5 billion in legal NFL wagering for the 2026 season, representing a near-stagnant growth rate compared to previous years. The AGA attributes this slowdown to the rise of prediction markets, which the organization characterizes as ‘backdoor sports betting’ that lacks the oversight and protections of regulated markets.
Entities
American Gaming Association · Brooke E. Lierman · Maryland · Maryland Lottery and Gaming · Office of the Comptroller
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Personal income tax collections reached $15.87 billion during fiscal year 2026. southernmarylandchronicle.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Maryland collected $8.45 million in July 2026 from sports wagering, compared to $7.25 million in July 2025. marylandreporter.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Sports wagering generated $132.3 million in state contributions during fiscal year 2026. marylandreporter.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The American Gaming Association projects $29.5 billion in legal NFL wagering for the 2026 season. news.bitcoin.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The American Gaming Association attributes the slowdown in sports betting growth to the rise of prediction markets. news.bitcoin.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Maryland ended fiscal year 2026 with a General Fund balance of $1.052 billion. southernmarylandchronicle.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Bettors received approximately $440.9 million in prizes from a $496.4 million handle in July 2026. marylandreporter.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] General Fund revenues for fiscal year 2026 totaled $28.06 billion, representing a 9.1% increase over fiscal 2025. southernmarylandchronicle.com