Eye Opener: Lawmakers spend hefty sum commuting to Annapolis

From writing legislation, to grabbing votes, to the upcoming referendum fight, Maryland’s casino program oozes with controversy.

But, as attendees of the Maryland State Lottery Commission meeting were reminded Thursday, the controversy doesn’t necessarily stop with the approval of the program’s rules.

Two groups have filed appeals, contesting the award of Baltimore’s slots license to CBAC Gaming LLC, a group led by Caesars Entertainment Corp.

Here’s a few other state government headlines:

• The Gazette reports on the $1.96 million spent by Maryland’s 188 lawmakers on lodging and food during this year’s regular session of the General Assembly.
• The Baltimore Sun reports that Del. Donald H. Dwyer Jr. was drinking when his motorboat struck another in the Magothy River.
• The Sun also reports that the former Baltimore Grand Prix group has paid all of its overdue taxes, according to the state comptroller.
• The Associated Press and others report on Maryland’s $123 million federal grant for the state’s health benefit exchange.
• The Washington Post reports that Gov. Martin O’Malley’s band is following him to the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.