Maryland Sen. Ron Watson thought he had everything figured out for online casino passage this year.

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Facing a structural budget deficit, Maryland needed money. A study ordered by the state showed online casino could bring $300 million annually.

When any problem arose, he helped address it. This included carving out new business opportunities for minorities and creating a $10 million fund for any brick-and-mortar casino workers affected by the implementation of iGaming.

Speaking recently at the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) conference in Pittsburgh, Watson told how his efforts were derailed by an opposition campaign led by Cordish Cos.