Public hearings regarding tribal gaming rights are set for Wednesday, amidst anticipated opposition from Maine Governor Janet Mills. The proposed legislation emerges following Maine's recent opening of its sports betting market in late 2023. After a long-standing stance against betting, Mills granted tribes sports betting rights ahead of its launch in November.
One of the key proposals, LD 585, specifies that internet sports wagering may only be conducted by tribes authorized within the state. These tribes will have the opportunity to apply for licenses to manage online betting and can partner with one online operator each.
With aspirations to expand into igaming, Maine's tribes are hoping that the hearings in Augusta will move them closer to obtaining exclusive rights for online betting.
Maine’s sports betting has started on a promising note, with over $37.0 million wagered in the first month. The total handle reached $37.6 million, with DraftKings taking the lead after partnering with the Passamaquoddy tribe. It generated $4.3 million in adjusted gross receipts on a $30.5 million handle.
In contrast, Caesars registered a handle of $7.1 million, resulting in gross receipts of just $382,374. Caesars operates in Maine through partnerships with three Wabanaki nations: the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation, and the Penobscot Nation.
As tribal gaming continues to grow—illustrated by a 4.9% revenue increase to $40.9 billion in 2022, according to the National Indian Gaming Commission—tribes remain vigilant against potential threats from politicians and commercial gaming interests that could infringe on their rights.
Maine's push for exclusive tribal gaming rights aligns with similar movements in California and Florida, where both states have taken steps in 2023 to enhance tribal access to gambling opportunities.
