Delaware regulators are preparing to launch sports betting, possibly as soon as next summer, while also exploring plans to add other wagering options at the state’s three racinos. The moves, some already in the works, are now taking on new urgency after last week’s vote by neighbouring Maryland to roll out thousands of slot machines.

Delaware racinos are pushing back against moves to dramatically expand gambling in the state, arguing the move could backfire badly in a market that is already saturated.

Political debate over whether to expand Delaware’s already sizeable gambling industry is intensifying following the release of a report recommending thousands of additional video slots.

Delaware and West Virginia, two rock stars of the US gaming industry in the 1990s and early 2000s, are now scrambling amid a flood of competition that is ending their regional dominance.

Maryland may become the latest US state to embrace expanded gambling, with its labour and business leaders lining up in favor of a proposal to legalize thousands of slot machines. The support comes as Maryland finds itself surrounded by a ring of racinos and casinos in neighboring Mid-Atlantic states.

Months before the Maryland’s first slot halls are slated to open, lawmakers want to throw card games into the mix amid concerns about rising gambling competition from its Mid-Atlantic neighbours.

As political objections recede Delaware gambling executives are poised to make a big wager on sports betting in a bid to revive the state’s flagging racino industry. But Delaware’s moves are being closely watched by potential competitors, sparking concerns of a regional sports betting war as other states prepare to take the plunge as well.

A decisive vote for expanded gambling in the state of Maryland will set in motion a bidding process for casino licences next year, but at least one contender, the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, has ruled itself out of the bidding because of financial concerns.

A new report says the state of Delaware could take advantage of the historical quirk that allows it to offer sports betting to collect an additional US$22m to US$30m by upgrading the state's three slot machine casinos. However, the report may be parked while the State’s anti-gambling governor remains in office.

Although Delaware’s Governor has advocated gambling expansion, a measure calling for casino expansion won’t be considered until the General Assembly reconvenes next year. Meanwhile, the state’s existing racetrack casinos are beginning to implement table games.