Maine Sports Betting: Online Sportsbooks. Apps, Launch, and More
The state of Maine legalized sports betting back in 2022 but still hasn't launched online betting. Now, there has been some movement to get online betting going. Here's what you need to know about Maine sports betting and online sportsbooks in the state.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Maine?
Yes. A sports betting law was signed by Gov. Janet Mills in early May 2022. The law became active in August 2022. The law allows up to four online sportsbooks and 10 sportsbook retail locations.
There are four federally recognized tribes in Maine that have been given the green light to offer online sportsbooks with a sports betting license.
Maine Online Sports Betting Launch
After a year of almost nothing, Maine could get launched with online betting in November 2023. State officials have started to put rules and a governing board in place to regulate betting.
The Maine Gambling Control Unit has not set a hard date for the launch but late 2023 or early 2024 seems likely.
Maine Sports Betting History
Here's a look at some of the key dates in the last year for Maine online sports betting.
- July 18, 2023
- Officials in the state say temporary sports betting licenses could be given out as early as November 2023.
- July 10, 2023
- Mane Gambling Control Unit executive Director Milton Champion returns from suspension due to problematic social media posts.
- May 18, 2023
- Caesars Sportsbook reportedly will be play a big role in the launch after reaching a deal with three of the state's four tribes.
- March 8, 2023
- MGCU says the state will be lucky to be live by January 2024.
- August 2022
- The sports betting law in the state became active.
- May 2022
- Gov. Janet Mills signs LD 585 to legal sports betting in the state.
Best Sportsbooks, Apps, and Betting Sites in Maine
As of now, it looks like Caesars Sportsbook has a strong grip on online betting in the state. Reportedly, the popular sportsbook has partnered with three of the four tribes in the state that are allowed to earn sports betting licenses.
Sports Betting Alliance members such as DraftKings and FanDuel do not plan to apply for sports betting licenses in the state. The sportsbooks have stated the uneven revenue-sharing model with the state's tribes as a top reason for not trying to enter the state.
When the state launches, Caesars could potentially use promo codes and bonuses to gain new users.
Popular Sports Teams in Maine
Maine does not have any professional sports teams but sports fans in the state have plenty of New England-based teams nearby. Here are some of the teams that will be extremely popular as betting options.
- Boston Bruins (NHL)
- Boston Celtics (NBA)
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- New England Patriots (NFL)
- New England Revolution (MLS)
The major market teams in New York like the Yankees, Mets, Giants, Jets, and more will also likely be major teams that get interest from Maine sports bettors.
Daily Fantasy Sports in Maine
It is legal to play Daily Fantasy Sports in the state of Maine. DFS is legal under the 2017 bill LD 1320. Top DFS players like DraftKings and FanDuel operate in the state.
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