Maine Governor Signs Bill to Allow Tribes to Run Online Casinos
Summary
Maine has moved to legalise online casinos specifically run by its Wabanaki Nations after Governor Janet Mills signed LD 1164, “An Act to Create Economic Opportunities for the Wabanaki Nations Through Internet Gaming.” The law restricts licences for online casino operations to the state’s four Wabanaki Nations: the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, Mi’kmaq Nation and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians.
Online casino revenue will be taxed at 18%. Sponsors estimate about $1.8 million in state revenue in year one and more than $3 million annually thereafter. Oversight will be shared between tribal and state gaming authorities, following the model used for online sports betting in Maine.
Wabanaki leaders hailed the move as a major step for tribal economic sovereignty and sustainable revenue; Governor Mills noted regulatory safeguards and the role of Maine’s Gambling Control Unit. However, a survey from the National Association Against iGaming indicates notable public opposition within the state.
Key Points
- LD 1164 allows only the four Wabanaki Nations to obtain licences for online casinos in Maine.
- Online casino revenue will face an 18% tax rate; projected state revenue is ~$1.8m in year one and >$3m annually afterwards.
- Regulatory oversight will be shared between tribal and state authorities, mirroring Maine’s online sports-betting framework.
- Tribal leaders say the law strengthens economic sovereignty and provides a new, sustainable revenue stream for native communities.
- Public opposition exists: a survey by the National Association Against iGaming shows many Maine residents oppose iGaming.
Why should I read this?
Want the short version? This is a big deal for tribal economies and for how states approach online gambling. If you follow gaming regulation, indigenous economic development or state revenue changes, this law reshapes who gets to run iGaming in Maine — and could set a template other states watch closely. Worth a quick read to understand the winners, the tax take and the likely political pushback.