Maine's Successful Sports Betting Debut: A Promising Market

The Maine Gambling Control Unit, a division of the Department of Public Safety, reported a seamless launch with minimal complaints. Director Milt Champion noted the lack of significant issues, and the state's hotline for problem gambling experienced no unusual surge in calls, indicating a robust yet healthy market. Champion expressed satisfaction, stating that "everybody is behaving," a positive sign for the industry.

Maine's online sports betting landscape is under the control of indigenous tribes, including the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Micmac, and Maliseet nations. These tribes have exclusive rights to operate mobile betting apps, contributing 10% of their revenue to federal taxes. The market is accessible to individuals aged 21 and above.

The tribes collaborated with commercial operators to launch their sportsbooks. The Passamaquoddy tribe chose DraftKings, while the remaining three opted for Caesars Sportsbook. Despite partnering with only one tribe, DraftKings dominated the mobile and online sports betting market, earning approximately $3.4 million in profits during the opening weekend.

In November, the four tribes collectively earned around $2.3 million, contributing $468,000 in taxes to the state. The majority of the gross receipts went to the vendors. DraftKings' successful weekend saw them pay out $2.57 million in winnings to players, along with $82,000 in taxes.