Maine iGaming Law Draws Fire After Janet Mills Lets Bill Stand

Maine entered a new phase of gambling policy after Governor Janet Mills allowed legislation legalizing online casino games to take effect without a signature. The decision reversed her earlier position and immediately triggered responses from national gambling policy groups.

Good to Know

• Maine already permits online sports betting
• Online slots and casino games were previously illegal
• Advocacy groups plan legal and political challenges

The Campaign For Fairer Gambling responded quickly after LD 1164 became law. The group criticized the idea that legal online casino gambling replaces illegal betting activity. In a public statement, the organization argued legalization increases overall gambling participation and related harm rather than shrinking unregulated markets.

The CFG said:

“The proponents of legalization make false representations that it will replace illegal gambling. It does not – it normalizes the activity, growing the total market, the total consumption, the total harm, and the illegal sector.

“Besides, the Mills Administration has done little to attempt to combat illegal online gambling.”

CFG also focused on mobile slot games, calling them the most addictive form of gambling due to constant access across devices. The organization warned that ease of play expands exposure to vulnerable users regardless of age or financial condition.

The group added that gambling related harm places pressure on public resources. According to the statement, costs tied to addiction and financial distress fall on state services and budgets, while tax revenue fails to offset those expenses.

CFG founder Derek Webb took direct aim at the governor decision, saying:

“I thought that we had reached the point where there was a consensus that the US expansion of online gambling has been a disaster. Janet Mills has proven that as Governor she has failed to protect the people of Maine with integrity.”

National Association Against iGaming Joins Opposition

The National Association Against iGaming also released a statement criticizing the decision. The coalition said the move contradicted earlier positions and ignored warnings from regulators and public opposition.

The group said:

“This decision represents a clear break from the Governor previously stated position and disregards overwhelming public opposition, expert warnings from her own regulators, and a proven gaming framework that has delivered meaningful benefits to Maine communities and tribal nations for more than a decade.”

NAAiG argued that the timing of the decision raised political questions. According to the coalition, the reversal coincided with a US Senate campaign and a competitive primary challenge.

The organization said it plans to pursue a ballot challenge, noting:

“The National Association Against iGaming, alongside a broad coalition of allies, will lead efforts to overturn this law through Maine People Veto process.

“We are confident that when given the opportunity, Maine voters will reject this misguided expansion and reaffirm their commitment to responsible gaming policy grounded in transparency, caution, and accountability.”

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