O'Malley Hopeful on Gambling Special Session

Gov. Martin O'Malley said he believes progress is being made toward reaching a consensus to hold a special session this summer to expand gambling.

O'Malley met with Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett and Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Monday to discuss allowing table games such as blackjack and a new casino site in Prince George's County.

The governor said he's hopeful some alternatives offered by the House of Delegates will make a consensus possible. A key recommendation includes creating a gaming commission to set the state's tax rates on gambling proceeds, instead of leaving it up to lawmakers to decide.

O'Malley said he hopes there's “a little better than 50-50 chance” on reaching a consensus.