The new law is already set in place, but the first legal bets might not take place until 2024. The law will take effect this summer, but rules and regulations need to be drafted and the state will hire two employees to oversee sports betting.
Milton Champion, Executive Director of Maine’s gambling control unit, told the Bangor Daily News that he won’t skip steps when it comes to establishing regulations for the new gambling segment in Maine.
Governor Janet Mills, the person responsible for the bill, will give Native American tribes in Maine exclusive control of mobile sports betting, which at the moment is expected to account for 85% of revenue.
All in-person licenses will be set aside for casinos and off-track betting parlors, a 10% tax will be placed on all proceeds as well. Public hearings and written comments are required, Champion believes that this could take from eight months to a year and a half to complete.
In a statement to WABI-TV, Austin Muchmore, General Manager of Hollywood Casino in Bangor said: "We’re glad to at least finally be able to say, 'Yes, it’s law,'. Unfortunately, it’s going to take longer than I think most people expect."
On May 3, a law was introduced in Maine to allow federally recognized tribes throughout the state to conduct sports betting.
The legislation was an act incorporating three tribes revising tax laws regarding the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Passamaquoddy Tribe, and the Penobscot Nation.
Mills stated: "This law provides meaningful economic opportunities for the Wabanaki Nations. It incentivizes investment in Tribal communities, and it formalizes a collaboration process on policy that sets the foundation for a stronger relationship in the future."
She continued: "We will continue to work closely with the Tribes to make progress for the Wabanaki people."
