ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Taxes on casino revenue set aside for Maryland's education trust fund would have to be used to enhance school funding above state formulas, under a measure passed by the Maryland Senate.
The vote Monday night was unanimous. The bill would put the matter on the ballot as a constitutional amendment for voters to decide in November.
Supporters say it could add roughly $500 million a year when fully phased in over four years.
The move comes as lawmakers look ahead to next year, when a state commission is expected to recommend that lawmakers raise Maryland's education funding formulas.
Before the vote, hundreds of people rallied outside the statehouse ringing bells and chanting: "Fix the fund."
