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Legal sports betting in Maine is set to begin this weekend after the approval of new regulations by the Maine Department of Public Safety Gambling Control Unit. The sportsbooks will start taking bets on Friday, November 3, at 9 a.m. The department will post a list of eligible events for wagering on their website on Friday morning.
Under Maine’s sports betting law, the exclusive rights to operate sportsbooks in the state are given to the four Native American tribes. The launch of the market follows an extensive review by the Gambling Control Unit, which received over 600 comments on the proposed rules.
It is expected that the majority of sports bets in Maine will be placed online, following the trend seen in most states. Mobile sportsbooks are predicted to account for approximately 85% of sports bets in the state.
The legalization of sports betting in Maine was part of broader legislation aimed at granting more sovereignty to the state’s four tribes. The Penobscot Nation, the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, and the Mi’kmaq Nation, collectively known as the Wabanaki confederation, will partner with existing sportsbook operators to offer mobile sports betting platforms in the state.
Caesars Sportsbook has already partnered with three tribes, while DraftKings announced its partnership with the fourth tribe this week. Both operators are excited about the opportunity to provide safe and legal sports betting to customers in Maine.
In addition to online platforms, the law also allows for retail sportsbooks at the state’s two brick-and-mortar casinos, as well as racetracks and off-track betting facilities.
An important aspect of Maine’s sports betting legislation is the economic boost it will provide to the four tribes. The revenue generated from sports betting will be split, with Caesars and DraftKings keeping 40%, 50% going to the tribes, and 10% in taxes to the state.
Maine’s sports betting law permits anyone aged 21 or older to place bets. Resources for problem gambling are available through the state helpline, 211 Maine, or by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.