Maine lawmakers to consider online casino bill with tribal exclusivity
LD 1164 would grant Maine’s four federally recognised tribes the right to offer online casino games.
US.- A new bill would allow Maine’s four federally recognised tribes to offer online casino games. LD 1164 would give each of the Wabanaki Nations one licence to contract with an operator, the same set-up that they already have for online sports betting.
Titled “An Act to Create Economic Opportunity for the Wabanaki Nations Through Internet Gaming” the bill authorises tribal governments to operate options such as poker, roulette, and blackjack.
Under the bill, 16 per cent of gross receipts would be allocated to the state, funding areas such as addiction recovery services and health initiatives. The remaining revenue would be used by the tribes to support infrastructure and other community needs.
The proposed legislation has bipartisan support from both chambers as well as a non-voting representative for the Wabanaki Alliance attached as one of nine sponsors. A vote by the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee is expected in the coming weeks.
However, the bill is facing resistance from Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino in Bangor. They argue that giving internet gaming to the tribes would create a monopoly. The Wabanaki already offer online sports betting through in-state partnerships with DraftKings and Caesars.
