Maine Sports Betting – Latest Legal Updates

After several months of deliberation on the rollout process, legalized sports betting in Maine will officially become available. Maine now joins the ranks of over 30 states that have already embraced sports gambling.

Although the law legalizing sports betting was enacted in August 2022, state authorities in Maine opted for a gradual introduction, which meant that eager gamblers had to exercise patience and wait for months before being able to place their first wagers.

Maine Sports Betting – The Latest

In May 2022, Governor Janet Mills took the step of signing LD 585 into law, which sanctioned both mobile and retail sports betting in the state of Maine.

According to the provisions outlined in the bill, as approved by the Maine legislature, the responsibility of overseeing mobile sports betting operations will be entrusted to the state’s tribal interests. In parallel, limited retail sports betting opportunities will be offered at racetracks and casinos throughout the state. 

In her statement regarding the new law, Governor Mills emphasized its positive implications for the Wabanaki Nations, highlighting that it not only fosters economic prospects but also encourages investment in Tribal communities.

Additionally, the law formalizes a collaborative process on policy matters, which lays the groundwork for a more robust relationship in the future. Under the law’s provisions, tribes are granted exclusive rights for online wagering, while existing casinos are permitted to host in-person betting activities.

It remains unclear exactly which Maine betting apps will launch in the state.

Possible Maine Sportsbooks  

Currently, there are no active online sportsbooks in Maine as the official launch of legal sports betting is pending.

Nevertheless, the Maine Gambling Control Unit envisions that around ten facilities, comprising commercial casinos and racetracks will be authorized to operate physical sportsbooks.

In an announcement on October 31, DraftKings disclosed that it had secured an agreement with the Passamaquoddy Tribe for the launch of its online sportsbook. Jason Robins, CEO and co-founder of DraftKings, expressed anticipation for their ongoing collaboration with the Maine Gambling Control Unit.

DraftKings Sportsbook is set to become the official mobile sports betting provider of the Passamaquoddy Tribe and introduce its services in their impressive 25th state in the industry.

According to a report by various sources, it is anticipated that Caesars Sportsbook will enter the Maine market upon its official launch. Caesars Sportsbook had previously revealed a partnership with three of the Wabanaki Tribes to introduce a mobile sports betting platform.

As per the same source, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Fanatics are reportedly not planning to seek sports betting licenses in Maine. Both DraftKings and FanDuel already offer daily fantasy sports to state residents, and they have a significant presence in the nationwide sports wagering market. 

The state will allow retail sports betting at Maine’s two commercial casino establishments: Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino.

Maine Sports Betting Markets

When Maine’s sports betting market takes off, it’s expected that the majority of sports bettors will direct their wagers toward teams based in other states. This is due to Maine’s relatively small population of just 1.3 million, which lacks professional sports franchises.

Instead of supporting local teams, sports betting enthusiasts in Maine are more inclined to place their bets on professional sports franchises from other states.

For all NFL enthusiasts, the New England Patriots stand out as a popular choice among many Maine residents, holding the records for the most Super Bowl wins, tied with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Those looking to bet on the NBA will likely favor the Boston Celtics, one of the league’s original eight teams, known for their impressive 17 NBA Championships, a record they share with their long-standing rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers.

For MLB enthusiasts, the Boston Red Sox will likely be the go-to choice, while those interested in NHL betting will find the Boston Bruins a strong option. 

While in-state betting on college football will not be allowed, DFS and Horse Racing are other alternatives Maine bettors will have.