B 26-0379 Legislature · 26th Council Period (2025-2026)

Poker and Blackjack Gaming Authorization Act of 2025

This bill authorizes physical poker and blackjack gaming at designated locations in the District of Columbia, specifically at eligible establishments holding certain liquor licenses (like restaurants or hotels with Class C/H, D/H, or arena CX permits). It creates a regulatory framework where the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and the Office of Lottery and Gaming will issue licenses, collect taxes, and enforce rules for these card games, while explicitly excluding online or electronically determined play. The law defines "card gaming" as wagering on physical games with real cards at authorized venues, requiring operators to follow specific rules set by the Chief Financial Officer. This change aims to generate revenue from local gambling activities currently drawing residents to Maryland and support tourism through events like poker tournaments.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Oct 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Oct 1, 2025 Last action Mar 3, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
0
Committee
3
Mar 3, 2026
Committee
Re-Referred to Committee on Human Services
legislature
Feb 27, 2026
Committee
Re-Referral published.
legislature
Oct 7, 2025
Committee
Referred to Committee on Business and Economic Development
legislature
Oct 1, 2025
Introduced
B26-0379 Introduced by Chairman Mendelson at Office of the Secretary
legislature
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Phil Mendelson
Phil Mendelson
DDemocratic
DC
Chairman