Overview
- Gov. Janet Mills said she will allow LD 1164 to become law, granting the Wabanaki Nations control of Maine’s online casino market and building on their 2022 mobile sports-betting authority.
- Tribal leaders welcomed the decision, saying iGaming revenue will support essential services, economic development, and greater sovereignty for their communities.
- The Maine Gambling Control Board urged a veto, warning the expansion could undermine existing casinos, threaten jobs, and disrupt a revenue system that funds public priorities, with addiction risks also cited.
- The National Association Against iGaming condemned the reversal and said it will lead a People's Veto effort, while critics tie the timing to Mills’ U.S. Senate campaign.
- The governor’s office said the law will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns its next session unless designated emergency legislation, as industry-backed polling reports a majority of voters oppose iGaming.