Maine Doubles Down On Online Casino Expansion as Tribes Back New Bill
Bill Would Allow Mobile Gambling Apps for Blackjack and Poker
Big Move for Wabanaki Nations
Maine’s four federally recognized tribes, the Wabanaki Nations, are behind a new bill to expand the online casino market in the Pine Tree State.
Introduced on March 20 by Representative Ambureen Rana, LD 1164 would allow poker and blackjack for money, in addition to mobile sports betting. Tribal leaders say it’s about economic self-sufficiency and modernizing Maine’s gambling regulations.
However, commercial betting casino reps and city officials are speaking out. Still, the potential for a steady revenue stream has given momentum to the conversation in Augusta, where lawmakers from both parties are more open to the idea that Maine is missing out on a big market.
When that $10K stack hits your hand >#casino pic.twitter.com/J2dfqmuAdx
— Hollywood Casino Bangor (@HollywoodBangor) March 6, 2025
LD 1164 Highlights
Here are the key points of LD 1164:
- iGaming: Tribes can operate mobile gambling apps with table games.
- Tax and Revenue Share: 16% tax on adjusted gross receipts.
- Regulation: The Maine Gambling Control Unit would license and monitor tribal online casinos.
- Tribal Exclusivity: Like mobile sports betting, Maine’s tribes are the only local operators.
Industry insiders say the 16% tax rate is a fair balance between raising public funds and allowing legit gambling sites to thrive.
Current Gaming Landscape
Maine’s gambling landscape is unique due to its charitable framework and tight control over commercial betting casino venues. Two land-based properties, Hollywood Casino Bangor and Oxford Casino, operate under strict guidelines. Not surprisingly, they have also voiced their opposition, fearing that a monopoly will develop.
What’s the Deal With Sports?
Sports betting launched in 2023 and gave tribal groups exclusive rights to mobile bet platforms. That’s already working out well for the Passamaquoddy Tribe and others who are reporting steady revenue from partnerships with national operators.
While tribes now manage sports apps, state law still prohibits them from running full online casinos.
Old Orchard Maine is our next great Casino town https://t.co/GJ0ulG0xqA
— Coronado ‘Porch’ Lindzon (@howardlindzon) March 22, 2025
Other States in Play
Maine’s tribes hope to make casino news with this bill, but the debate is happening elsewhere, too. Arkansas is considering an online casino bill this session but with gubernatorial opposition expected, it’s a long shot.
New Hampshire is trying to replace historic horse racing machines with modern slot machines but recent efforts for new online gambling regulations folded under pressure.
Could This Be a Winner for Maine?
It all depends on how lawmakers weigh the competing arguments. Proponents say tribes are ready to host online gambling. Opponents worry about monopolies. For now, the backers of LD 1164 are hopeful.
As Maine’s Legislature decides to roll the dice on iGaming, the outcome will have implications beyond the Wabanaki Nations. If passed, this could set a precedent for how states handle online casinos in their jurisdictions.
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