Maryland § 10-611.1

§ 10-611.1.

    (a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

        (2)    (i)    “Major entertainment event” means, except as otherwise specified by the Authority, an indoor or outdoor event organized for the primary purpose of the entertainment or amusement of people with:

                1.    an expected attendance of at least 20,000 people;

                2.    a negotiated broadcasting deal with either live or delayed broadcasting;

                3.    commercial sponsorship opportunities; or

                4.    a demonstrated positive economic impact for the State.

            (ii)    “Major entertainment event” includes:

                1.    a parade;

                2.    a carnival;

                3.    a fair;

                4.    a festival;

                5.    a concert;

                6.    an exhibition; and

                7.    a show.

        (3)    (i)    “Major sporting event” means, except as otherwise specified by the Authority, a professional or an amateur sporting event that is sanctioned by a regional, national, or international organization or association with:

                1.    an expected attendance of at least 20,000 people;

                2.    a negotiated broadcasting deal with either live or delayed broadcasting;

                3.    commercial sponsorship opportunities; or

                4.    a demonstrated positive economic impact for the State.

            (ii)    “Major sporting event” does not include:

                1.    a professional football game, except for:

                A.    the Super Bowl; or

                B.    an exhibition or championship game for an organization other than the National Football League;

                2.    a professional baseball game, except for:

                A.    a Major League Baseball All–Star Game; or

                B.    an exhibition or championship game for an organization other than Major League Baseball; or

                3.    a professional basketball game.

        (4)    “Program” means the Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program.

    (b)    (1)    There is a Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program in the Authority.

        (2)    The purpose of the Program is to:

            (i)    attract major sporting events and major entertainment events to the State;

            (ii)    attract fans, participants, and tourists to the State for major sporting events;

            (iii)    generate positive media coverage for the State; and

            (iv)    generate a positive economic impact for the State.

    (c)    Maryland Sports, established under § 10–611 of this subtitle, shall implement and administer the Program in accordance with this section.

    (d)    With approval from the Authority and to assist with the costs of attracting and organizing a major sporting event or major entertainment event, including expenses associated with advertising, promotions, and capital projects, funding may be awarded to:

        (1)    a nonprofit organization;

        (2)    a for–profit organization;

        (3)    a county; or

        (4)    a business entity.