Tribal iGaming Bill Moves to Maine Senate

Maine lawmakers are once again weighing tribal access to online gambling. A new bill that would grant exclusive iGaming rights to the state’s four federally recognized tribes has cleared a key hurdle in the state legislature.

Good to know

• The bill passed the House 85-59 and now moves to the Senate.
• It builds on an earlier law that already gave tribes exclusive control over online sports betting.
• 18% of gross gambling receipts would go to state-funded public services.

Lawmakers in the Maine House voted in favor of LD 1164, a bill that would allow the Passamaquoddy Tribe, Penobscot Nation, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, and Mi’kmaq Nation to offer online casino-style games. If passed by the Senate and signed into law, the tribes would be able to legally operate games like blackjack, poker, and roulette through mobile platforms.

The proposal expands upon a 2022 law that gave these tribes sole authority over online sports betting in the state. This latest bill would add a broader range of games to their portfolio.

Tribal Representatives Call It a Path to Local Investment

Supporters of the legislation say it would create jobs and boost economic development in rural communities. Rep. Brian Reynolds of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians urged lawmakers to give tribal groups the opportunity to manage and benefit from online gaming.

“We know how to do this the right way,” Reynolds said. “We are asking for the chance to build.”

Rep. Aaron Dana of the Passamaquoddy Tribe emphasized that any revenue would be directed back into tribal and rural economies, including areas like Washington and Aroostook counties. “It offers hope and opportunity,” he said.

Rep. Ambreen Rana, who introduced the bill, pointed to bipartisan support and described the legislation as an overdue effort to include tribal and rural regions in economic progress.

Under LD 1164, the state would receive 18% of gross receipts from tribal-operated online gambling. These funds would be channeled into addiction prevention, opioid treatment programs, emergency housing, school renovations, and veterans’ services.

Resistance From Casinos and State Officials

Despite passing in the House, the bill faces strong resistance. Commercial casinos, including Hollywood Casino in Bangor and Oxford Casino, oppose the proposal. Governor Janet Mills’ administration also remains critical, having pushed back against similar legislation in the past.

Public health voices added to the opposition. Critics, including Rep. Nathan Carlow of Buxton, warned of potential harm tied to increased gambling access. “It’s way more addictive than casino gambling,” he said. “People—particularly young men—are signing away their financial health, freedom, and future.”

Maine CDC Director Puthiery Va added that online gambling could trigger isolation and impulsive behavior, while the state’s Gambling Control Unit highlighted risks tied to unregulated gambling activity.

Still, other lawmakers argued that regulation is a better path than letting illegal operators continue unchecked. “Unfortunately, iGaming is happening illegally now,” said Rep. Anne Graham. “I believe the ‘horse is out of the barn’ and regulating iGaming is the smart thing to do.”

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