Online Gaming in Maine a Possibility This Year

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jan 8, 2024

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Maine initiated its regulated sports betting market just in November, and already there is contemplation of further enlargement, with lawmakers examining a bill carried over from the preceding session.

Filed by Rep. Laura Supica, LD 1777 aims to grant tribal nations the exclusive ability to provide online casino gaming, mirroring the current structure of the state’s sports betting market.

Nevertheless, tribes will be prohibited from transferring their license to any alternative business or operator. This code was imposed to prevent the transfer of licenses unless the entity the license is being transferred to is a direct, fully-owned subsidiary of the respective tribe or band.

The issuance of licenses will adhere to a four-year term. They are also contingent upon regulatory endorsement and will require a payment of $200,000. The payment must be directed to the Maine Gambling Control Unit.

In essence, the bill broadens the rights of tribes to extend beyond sports betting. Tribes can go beyond and opt for various forms of online gambling. These alternatives include online slots and table games.

Simultaneously, it proposes a modification to the distribution mechanism for tax revenue. According to LD1777, 40% of the generated revenue will be allocated to the state’s E-9-1-1 fund.

An additional 20% of the revenue will be directed towards the Opioid Use Disorder Prevention and Treatment Fund. Moreover, 1% of the revenue will be designated for the General Fund to cover administrative costs for the Maine Gambling Control Unit.

Another 1% will contribute to the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund. The legislation, having been carried over from the prior session, is set for renewed debate this week. The legislation will be debated before voting.

Noteworthy opposition to the bill has emerged, particularly from Steve Silver of the MGCB. Silver is an advocate for a more open market where tribes obtain licenses within a competitive landscape, which is contrary to what state authorities have established.

According to reports from the Portland Press Herald, Gov. Janet Mills is purportedly against any potential expansion of gambling, although she did eventually endorse and enact the sports betting law in 2022.