Maine has taken a unique approach to online casino gaming by granting control exclusively to the Wabanaki Nations, distinguishing the state as other U.S. lawmakers continue debating iGaming expansion. Gov. Janet Mills allowed the bill to become law after it passed both chambers, despite earlier resistance from regulators and commercial casino operators.
The law authorizes internet gaming for the Mi’kmaq Nation, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Penobscot Nation, and Passamaquoddy Tribes, each partnering with one third-party operator. Two Tribes have aligned with Caesars and DraftKings. A launch date has not been set.
Mills met with Tribal leaders at Indian Township and Sipayik and acknowledged their argument that the legislation could deliver long-term revenue and strengthen Tribal self-determination. “I considered this bill carefully, and while I have concerns about the impacts of gambling on public health, I believe that this new form of gambling should be regulated,” she said. She added confidence that “Maine’s Gambling Control Unit will develop responsible rules and standards to hold providers of this new form of gambling accountable while ensuring that Maine’s tribes benefit from its operations.”
Tribal Leaders Frame Law as Long-Delayed Progress
Leaders of the Wabanaki Nations responded by highlighting both the financial and historical significance of the legislation. Penobscot Chief Kirk Francis said the process reflected a shift in how the state engages with Tribal governments. “This cooperative approach and open-mindedness have led to passage of a historic Tribal economic bill that will benefit not just the Wabanaki people but all of Maine,” Francis said. “It represents a recognition of and support for economic Tribal self-governance and self-determination.”
Mi’kmaq Chief Sheila McCormack focused on how the revenue could support essential services within Tribal communities. “This bill will provide new and sustainable revenue that will deliver needed resources to invest in our community and provide for the health, welfare, and safety of our citizens,” she said.
Clarissa Sabattis, chief of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, described the legislation as “an incredible step for all of us.” She also linked the bill to consumer protection, saying, “For too long black-market websites have hosted illegal iGaming, with no protection for our youth and vulnerable adults.” Sabattis added, “LD 1164 will create a closely regulated iGaming market with strict controls and will ensure much needed revenues remain in Maine.”
Opposition and Broader Implications
The bill passed despite objections from the Gambling Control Board, which warned that excluding Oxford and Hollywood Casinos would harm workers and limit consumer choice. Some commercial operators, including FanDuel, Fanatics, and BetMGM, also opposed it. FanDuel’s Michael Ventre argued the law “would not create the healthy, regulated market that we have seen in many other states.”
With this legislation, Maine becomes the eighth state to allow real-money online casinos. Its tribal-exclusive framework stands out as other states, including New York and Virginia, revisit iGaming proposals amid persistent political and regulatory challenges.
Source:
“Wabanaki Nations to have exclusive iGaming rights in Maine”, mainemorningstar.com, January 8, 2026
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