Maine Sports Betting Launches After Long Wait

The much-anticipated launch of sports betting in Maine has finally arrived. Milt Champion, the executive director for the Maine Gambling Control Unit (GCU), confirmed this exciting news. This development follows the adoption of rules for wagering in Maine by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and GCU.

As of November 1, licensed operators and their management services have been given the green light to promote their offerings. They are also now accepting registrations and deposits, gearing up for the official launch.

Milt Champion expressed his gratitude to the various entities and individuals involved in the rulemaking process, including DPS, GCU, Adcare Maine Problem Gambling Services, the attorney-general’s Office, and the sports wagering industry. Their dedication and patience have played a crucial role in bringing sports betting to Maine.

It has been a long journey to legalize sports betting in Maine. The state's governor, Janet Mills, signed a bill that allowed both retail and online sports betting. However, there's a unique twist in the legislation (LD 585). Internet sports wagering is restricted to approved tribes within the state. Each tribe has the opportunity to apply for a license to operate online betting and can partner with one online operator to enhance their offering.

In addition to online betting, combined racetracks and off-track betting facilities in Maine can also apply for land-based licenses. The bill acknowledges the possibility of mobile gaming in the future. If it becomes legal in Maine, tribes must be granted the same market access as commercial operators.

Earlier this week, DraftKings revealed that it had entered into a preliminary agreement to partner with the Passamaquoddy tribe and launch an online sportsbook in Maine. This partnership, however, is subject to licensing and regulatory approvals. If it gets the green light, DraftKings and the Passamaquoddy tribe will jointly introduce a sports betting offering tailored for Maine. This will give players access to the DraftKings sports betting app, offering a wide range of betting options across different leagues and competitions.

This launch marks a significant milestone for DraftKings, as it becomes available in its 25th U.S. state for sports wagering.