Maine has officially entered the sports betting arena, with Governor Janet Mills signing a law in May 2022 that legalized sports betting in the state. This move granted exclusive online wagering rights to tribes. As the market opens, prominent operators like Caesars Sportsbook and DraftKings are already making their presence felt in the Pine Tree State.
Maine’s Sports Betting Debut:
Legalization and Exclusive Rights: Governor Janet Mills signed a law in May 2022 to legalize sports betting in Maine. The law granted tribes exclusive rights to conduct online sports wagering.
Partnerships with Tribal Nations: Caesars Sportsbook and DraftKings have partnered with various tribal nations to launch their sports betting platforms in Maine. Caesars Sportsbook entered into partnerships with the Wabanaki Nations, including the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation, and the Penobscot Nation. Meanwhile, DraftKings reached an agreement with the Passamaquoddy Tribe.
Caesars’ President’s Statement: Eric Hession, President of Caesars Digital, expressed his gratitude to the Maine Governor and Legislature for enabling the launch of Caesars Sportsbook. He highlighted the platform’s modern features designed for sports fans aged 21 and older, focusing on responsible wagering.
Tribe Leaders’ Comments: Chiefs from the Penobscot Nation, Mi’kmaq Nation, and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians shared their enthusiasm for partnering with Caesars Sportsbook. They mentioned Caesars’ commitment to Tribal sovereignty and its understanding of Maine’s history with horse racing.
Sports Betting in Maine:
Regulations and Revenue Sharing: Under Maine’s sports betting legislation, each of the state’s four Native American tribes can apply for a single mobile sports betting license. The state is set to receive 10 percent of adjusted gross sports wagering receipts. This endeavor is expected to generate revenue between $3.8 million and $6.9 million for Maine, which can be seen as a significant economic opportunity.
Revenue Comparisons: Maine’s sports betting market holds the promise of contributing substantial revenue, as legal gambling activities, including casinos, generated $64 million in 2022.
Maine’s entry into the sports betting industry signifies a significant milestone for the state, with key partnerships and exclusive rights for tribal nations. The contributions from the sports betting market are expected to provide an economic boost, aligning with the state’s values and priorities.