(SeaPRwire) –   Curious about Maine’s stance on online gambling? The short answer: it’s now legal. The state will soon permit real-money online casino games, including slots, blackjack, and roulette, following the passage of a legalization bill that Governor Janet Mills chose not to veto. This development positions Maine as the eighth state to legalize iGaming.

Here’s a breakdown of the current situation regarding Maine’s online casinos, what’s on the horizon, and when you can expect to play legally.

So… Is Online Gambling Legal in Maine?

As of [Date of Bill Passage], Maine has enacted online casino legislation. State lawmakers passed a bill (LD 1164) granting Maine’s four Wabanaki tribes exclusive rights to launch online casino applications. This means real-money slots, blackjack, roulette, and other games will be operated by tribal entities and overseen by the state.

The bill was presented to Governor Mills, who had until [Date of Deadline] to either veto the bill, sign it into law, or take no action, allowing it to become law automatically. After deliberation, Mills allowed the bill to pass and become law before the January 10 deadline.

The legislation is facing legal challenges, with Oxford Casino Hotel filing a lawsuit. They allege discrimination by the state for not granting iGaming licenses to Maine’s two commercial casinos.

Online casinos will be subject to a 16% tax on revenue, a rate that is competitive with other legal US states.

Gov. Mills Allows iGaming Bill to Pass

In Maine, a bill automatically becomes law if the governor does not sign or veto it within ten days (excluding Sundays). This is a common approach when a governor has reservations about a bill but prefers not to block it entirely. It serves as a political compromise, allowing the legislation to proceed without full endorsement.

This scenario was very much in play here. Governor Mills received opposition to the bill from the Maine Gambling Control Unit. The MGCU advocated for a veto to include the state’s two commercial casinos in the iGaming licensing process. In her decision, Mills emphasized her desire to support the Maine tribes in enhancing their financial stability.

“This fall, I met with the five elected Chiefs of the Wabanaki Nations, who each spoke passionately about the importance of this bill in providing life-changing revenue for Tribal communities, as well as offering a measure of economic sovereignty for their Nations,” she stated in a press release.

When Will Legal Online Casinos Launch in Maine?

1. The Maine Gambling Control Unit will develop and finalize licensing regulations.
2. The tribes will apply for licenses and select platform partners.
3. The first legal online casinos will launch in Maine.

Realistically, this suggests an initial launch window in late 2026 or 2027. Until then, there are no legal, regulated real-money online casino platforms available in the state.

What Casino Games Will Be Available?

• Slots: Including popular video slots and progressive jackpots like 88 Fortunes. You can find more details about these in our review of 88 Fortunes slot features.
• Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat: Classic casino games with live dealer options.
• Live Casino Games: Streamed from studios, featuring real-time interaction with professional dealers.

What Online Casino Bonuses Might Be Offered?

• Deposit matches
• Free spins
• Cashback deals
• Loyalty programs

While these may vary by player, licensed Maine casinos are expected to offer similar types of promotions found in other regulated states. This includes offers comparable to the Golden Nugget Casino promo, the Hard Rock Casino coupon, the Hollywood Casino promotion, and the betPARX Casino coupon currently available in legal states. Our comprehensive page on online casino bonuses provides a detailed overview.