# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 12. Gaming -- Statewide Provisions

### Subtitle 1. General Provisions

#### Section 12-101

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) "Candidate" has the meaning stated in Sec. 1-101 of the Election Law Article.

(c)

  (1) "Credit" means payment by a credit card or promissory note.

  (2) "Credit" includes selling or pledging personal property in exchange for cash or tokens.

(d)

  (1) "Gaming device" means:

    (i) a gaming table, except a billiard table, at which a game of chance is played for money or any other thing or consideration of value; or

    (ii) a game or device at which money or any other thing or consideration of value is bet, wagered, or gambled.

  (2) "Gaming device" includes a paddle wheel, wheel of fortune, chance book, and bingo.

(e) "Gaming event" means:

  (1) a bingo game;

  (2) a carnival;

  (3) a bazaar;

  (4) a raffle;

  (5) a benefit performance; or

  (6) any other event at which a gaming device is operated.

(f) "Organization" includes:

  (1) a fraternal, religious, civic, patriotic, educational, or charitable organization;

  (2) a volunteer fire company, rescue squad, or auxiliary unit;

  (3) a veterans' organization or club;

  (4) a bona fide nonprofit organization that is raising money for an exclusively charitable, athletic, or educational purpose; or

  (5) any organization that is authorized to conduct a gaming event under Subtitle 1 or 2 of this title or Title 13 of this article.

(g) "Political committee" has the meaning stated in Sec. 1-101 of the Election Law Article.

(h) "Token" means a poker chip, bingo chip, or other device commonly used instead of money in the playing of a gaming device.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)