Maine passed sports betting legislation in 2019 but a tenacious battle from the governor ultimately led to the bill getting vetoed. But now it looks like regulation will happen in summer 2023.
And that probably means it will be 2022 or later before Maine sports betting becomes a reality, as it is in neighboring New Hampshire.
Editor Note: Maine sports betting inches closer to reality in April 2022. Read more.
Is sports betting legal in Maine?
No, although it was very close and both the House and Senate approved the measure. But Gov. Janet Mills didn’t like it, vetoed the measure, then fought off two attempts to override her veto. So for now, Maine sports betting fans can keep playing with their favorite offshore sportsbook, their corner bookie or drive across the border to New Hampshire to give their business to that state.
Where can I bet at Maine sportsbooks?
It was envisioned that 11 different betting facilities could offer sports betting in Maine. Land-based and online sports betting would have been permitted at a racetrack, two casinos (Oxford Casino and Hollywood Casino Bangor), four off-track-betting shops and four tribal casinos.
What about mobile sports betting apps in Maine?
Mobile and online betting was envisioned by Bill LD553 but that is now back to the drawing board. At least there is hope that a similar measure with similar mobile betting privileges can be adopted in the future.