Last updated: June 1, 2020

Status: A bill that would bring sports betting to Maine passed through the legislature in 2019 only to be vetoed by Gov. Janet Mills in January 2020. The bill now won’t be considered until 2021 at the earliest.

ETA: Sports betting won’t be considered again until 2021.

 

Maine Betting History

Historically, Maine has been fairly tolerant of betting activities. Pari-mutuel betting is allowed at the state's two race tracks, Scarborough Downs and the Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway in Bangor, where harness racing is held. Harness racing is also hosted at agricultural events in Maine during the summer months with betting permitted on site. There are also a number of off-track betting venues located around the state. Greyhound racing was banned in 1993.

Maine operates two state-licensed casinos: one in Bangor, opened in 2003; and one in Oxford, opened in 2010. However, there are no tribal casinos despite the presence of four federally recognized tribes. This is because the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act does not apply in the state. Slot machines were permitted at horse tracks in 2003 following a state referendum.

Like many states, Maine permits fund-raising organizations to hold games of chance providing the profits are directed to the sponsored causes. Permitted activities include bingo, raffles and card games. However, there are strict prize limits for each type of game.

The Maine state lottery offers a range of draws and scratch-off games and also partakes in multi-state lottery games such as Powerball and Mega Millions.

 

Is sports betting legal in Maine?

Sports betting is still illegal in Maine.

 

Who controls sports betting in Maine?

If sports gambling in Maine gets the go-ahead, it will be controlled by the Maine Gambling Control Board.

 

What is the legal age to bet on sports in Maine?

Age limits of 18 and 21 have been discussed, but it is expected that a minimum age limit of 18 will be set.

 

Where can I bet on sports in Maine?

This is not possible at present.

 

Who are the current operators/licensees in Maine?

There are no current sports betting operators or licence holders in the state of Maine.

 

Which operators currently offer legal sports betting in Maine?

No operators currently offer legal sports betting in Maine.

 

Is mobile and app sports betting available in Maine?

No.

 

How much is sports betting worth in Maine?

Maine lawmakers expect sports wagering to generate upwards of $800,000 per year in tax revenue.

 

What is the tax rate for Maine sports betting?

This is not clear at present.