Maine to Legalize Online Casinos Through Tribal Operators

A Final Signature Clears the Way

Gov. Janet Mills said she will sign the bill into law. That step removes the last barrier to legalization. Maine may soon become the eighth U.S. state offering online casino games — a notable expansion.

Lawmakers framed the change as a way to control an existing market. Supporters argue regulation offers better safeguards than unregulated online play. Critics remain unconvinced, yet momentum carried the bill forward.

The law gives exclusive rights to Maine’s federally recognized tribes. Each tribe may operate one online casino. Commercial casinos are left out — a decision fueling quiet anger across the industry.

Regulation at the Center of the Debate

Oversight will fall to the Gambling Control Unit. The unit will set rules, monitor conduct, and protect users. Still, questions remain about legal authority — current statutes may limit its reach.

Gov. Mills acknowledged concerns tied to public health and social harm. She said regulation offers the best path forward. In her view, rules and accountability matter more than prohibition.

At the core of the law are several structural limits:

• Up to four online casino licenses statewide
  
  

• One license per federally recognized tribe
  
  

• No eligibility for commercial casino operators
  
  

Hence, the state is betting on structure over resistance. Whether that bet holds remains uncertain.

Limited Licenses and Big Partnerships

The law allows only four online casinos statewide. Each license belongs to one tribal operator. Most tribes are expected to partner with national casino brands — a common approach elsewhere.

DraftKings and Caesars already have deals in place. Two licenses remain open. BetMGM, FanDuel, and Fanatics could compete for entry, though space is limited.

Only a few companies will succeed. Scarcity adds pressure — and quiet rivalry.

Commercial Casinos Push Back

Maine’s two commercial casinos face exclusion. Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino cannot host online games. That creates an uneven market, according to regulators.

The Gambling Control Board warned the law could harm workers and users. It also argued shifting oversight weakens its role. The board said removing casino games from its control appears unlawful.

Beyond revenue, control sits at the heart of the dispute.

Public Doubts and the Road Ahead

Many residents oppose online casino expansion. Despite that, lawmakers moved forward. Tribal rights, tax revenue, and competition shaped the outcome.

Subsequently, rulemaking will define success or failure. Licensing terms, safeguards, and enforcement remain unresolved. The framework is set — but the real test now begins.