There are several casinos in Maine that are lobbying to go online.
A new bill before Maine lawmakers seeks to grant the four federally recognized tribes in the state the ability to profit from online casino games, just as they currently do with sports betting. Currently, the four federally recognized tribes in Maine manage online sports betting through partnerships with DraftKings and Caesars Sportsbook.
The Wabanaki Nations are advocating for the expansion of legal online gambling, arguing it could channel money away from the black market and into critical tribal programs. The bill, LD 1164, is meeting strong resistance from Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino in Bangor. Representatives from these casinos argue the legislation would effectively hand internet gaming over to the tribes, creating a monopoly.
This battle comes on the heels of a decision by casinos in Maine to approve no-dealer poker.
Maine Casino Hearing Deciphers Exclusive Tribal Rights
The Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee recently listened to arguments in favor of legalizing online casino games, with a proposal that would give the tribes exclusive control over this system. This setup mirrors that of sports betting, which was successfully introduced in Maine in 2023.
In an interview with Newscenter Maine, Chief William Nicholas of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indian Township mentioned the potential financial benefits from games like online blackjack and craps, emphasizing this revenue could relieve financial pressures and fund vital services.
He explained the additional income would help address various needs such as housing, healthcare, and support for the elderly, all of which are typically funded by the tribe.
Casinos in Maine Offer Online Sports Betting
A recent partnership between the Passamaquoddy Tribe and the sportsbook DraftKings has already proven fruitful. Last month alone, the tribe saw over $35 million in sports betting wagers, with adjusted gross receipts amounting to approximately $4.7 million after payouts.
Nicholas believes a significant portion of money currently tied up in illegal online gambling activities could be redirected toward the state's revenue if online casino gambling is legalized. He argues these potential revenues should be benefiting the people of Maine.
There Is Opposition From Maine's Licensed Casinos
This isn’t the first attempt to legalize online casino gambling in Maine, as a similar proposal was rejected last year.
The main opposition comes from the state’s two licensed casinos, Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino in Bangor. Dan Walker, a lobbyist for Oxford Casino and its owner Churchill Downs, voiced concerns that expanding online gambling could negatively impact their business, which provides jobs to more than 350 people.
“Passage of this bill, to be clear, would constitute the greatest single expansion of gaming in our state’s history without the vote of the people of Maine,” said Chris Jackson, who spoke on behalf of Hollywood Casino. “It would threaten facilities in Bangor and Oxford.”
Additionally, some lawmakers have expressed worry about the potential for increased addictive behavior, fearing that legalizing what has been termed as a "casino in your pocket" could exacerbate gambling problems statewide.
A committee vote on the online casino bill is expected in the coming weeks.
Sweepstakes Casinos an Option in Maine
Sweepstakes casinos are legally accepted in 48 states across the United States, but not every provider will operate in every state.
