DraftKings has announced a partnership with the Passamaquoddy tribe to launch a sports betting platform in Maine, contingent upon obtaining the necessary licensing and regulatory approvals. If approved, this partnership will provide players aged 21 and older access to the DraftKings sports betting app, which features a variety of wagering options across multiple sports leagues and competitions. This launch would position Maine as the 25th US state to offer sports wagering through DraftKings.
Jason Robins, DraftKings co-founder and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the Passamaquoddy tribe, emphasizing the importance of offering safe and legal sports betting to customers in Maine. He stated, “Building a relationship with the Passamaquoddy tribe is a fantastic opportunity for DraftKings.” Robins also acknowledged the ongoing effort with the Maine Gambling Control Unit as they prepare to become the official mobile sports betting provider for the tribe.
Passamaquoddy tribal chief William Nicholas echoed Robins' sentiment, saying, “The Passamaquoddy tribe is excited to enter into a mobile sports wagering agreement with DraftKings. We couldn’t have landed a better organization in the mobile sports wagering arena.” He expressed optimism regarding future growth and investment opportunities in Maine.
In May 2022, Maine governor Janet Mills signed a bill that legalized both retail and online sports betting in the state. A key stipulation of LD 585 is that internet sports wagering can only be operated by the state’s approved tribes. Previously, the state's four Native American tribes were largely excluded from various gambling activities. Under this bill, each tribe may apply for a license to operate online sports betting and can partner with one online operator.
The collaboration between DraftKings and the Passamaquoddy tribe meets the regulations outlined in the bill, which requires a mobile sports betting license fee of $200,000, payable every four years. Additionally, retail wagering will allow racetracks and off-track betting facilities in Maine to apply for land-based licenses, priced at $4,000 and also due every four years. The legislation also mandates that should mobile gaming be legalized in the future, the tribes must have equal access to the market as commercial operators.
