The Maine Legislature has passed LD 1164, a bill aimed at legalising online 바카라 gaming. However, Maine Governor Janet Mills has delayed action on a bill to legalise online 바카라 gaming, choosing to hold off until lawmakers return in 2026. The legislation has sparked debate among lawmakers, with implications for tribal gaming rights, commercial 바카라s, and the state’s economic outlook.
Key provisions of Maine’s online 바카라 bill
LD 1164 proposes granting exclusive rights to operate online 바카라s in Maine to the state’s four Wabanaki Nations. the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, Mi’kmaq Nation, and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. Under the bill, each tribe would be permitted to collaborate with one authorised iGaming provider and would be required to pay an annual licensing fee of $50,000.
The legislation excludes commercial 바카라s in Bangor and Oxford from participating in the online gaming market. Supporters argue that the measure could promote tribal economic development and enhance tribal sovereignty through digital gaming operations.
Governor Mills’ inaction
, leaving the bill pending until the Legislature reconvenes in January 2026. At that point, she will have three days to either sign it, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature. This approach postpones a definitive decision and avoids immediate political consequences. Mills previously vetoed a sports betting bill in 2020, which was later enacted through a legislative override. Her administration also opposed LD 1164 during committee hearings.
Political uncertainty surrounds LD 1164
LD 1164 passed the Maine Senate by a narrow margin of 18–17 votes, reflecting limited support. This slim margin suggests that overriding a potential veto would be challenging. Steve Silver, Chair of the Maine Gambling Control Board, expressed doubt that Governor Mills would sign the bill and questioned whether there is sufficient legislative support to override a veto. He also raised concerns about the broader political backing required to advance the bill in a divided legislature.
Speaking to Casino Reports, Silver stated, “I think it’d be a safe bet to say I don’t see her readily signing it. And if she vetoes it, I find it extremely unlikely that there are enough votes to override the veto.”
Public opinion on LD 1164 remains divided. Some residents support the expansion of online gaming, while others express concerns about gambling addiction and underage access. Many are calling for clear regulations and fair access to resources.
Commercial 바카라 operators have voiced opposition to the bill, while tribal nations have responded with cautious optimism. Platform providers are reportedly exploring potential partnerships under the proposed framework.
Other states approach on online 바카라s
In Ohio, House Bill 298 is under consideration. FanDuel estimates that legalised online 바카라s could generate up to $600 million in annual tax revenue. Proponents argue that iGaming could provide significant revenue without increasing existing taxes. However, critics note that the proposed 28% tax rate is lower than the 33% applied to land-based 바카라s and warn that online platforms could reduce revenue from existing retail operations.
In Virginia, progress on online 바카라 legislation has stalled. Lawmakers have cited concerns about the potential impact on the Virginia Lottery, delays in the development of physical 바카라s, and possible reductions in iLottery revenue.
