ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - The state Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill to expand Maryland gambling to include table games like blackjack and roulette.

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The chamber passed the measure to its final voting stage Monday night after shooting down amendments that attempted to strip profit enhancements for casino owners and limit how many licenses a slots parlor operator can have.

The bill would pave the way for a sixth state casino license in Prince George's County and increase the amount of revenue slots parlor owners are allowed to keep by 8 percent. If a sixth casino license is awarded, that share would increase by another 7 percent.

If the Legislature passes the bill, it will have to be ratified by a majority of Maryland voters.