Maryland Lottery & Casino Both See Record Increases
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Maryland's lottery and gaming are bringing in more than ever before.
Tracey Leong explains the spike and why it will only continue to rise.
Maryland's gaming and lottery makes up a large chunk of our state's revenue. In fact, it's the state's fourth largest contributor.
Marylanders are seizing the opportunity to win big.
"I do like winning money," said Liatasia Grant. "Who doesn't like winning money?"
"You can always use extra money," said Brad Propst.
Our state's lottery and casinos bring in a record-breaking amount, contributing more than $1 billion to Maryland---up 19% from last year.
It's safe to say people are feeling lucky.
"And my odds always seem to play out better than I expect," Grant said.
"On the slot machines, you can put money in and win," Propst said. "Pretty good odds of winning something there."
And with the MGM Casino opening at the National Harbor in fall 2016, it's a number that will continue to surge.
"We are very optimistic on the casino business. I think we can see---at least at this point---growth for another three to four years," said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director Gordon Medenica.
And with a new game coming to town---Cash For Life---where you can win $1,000 a week for the rest of your life, gamblers will have even better odds of making it rich.
"We think those appeal to those customers who tire of the big jackpot games or like to have a different spin," Medenica said.
So whether it's taking your chances with the slot machines or trying your luck with Powerball, it's an industry with big appeal for Marylanders.
"Somebody's always got to win if you play enough," Propst said.
This big boost in revenue has also provided new funds for education---an increase of nearly $60 million.
Cash For Life is expected to launch sometime in the beginning of 2016.
