Maine has two casinos. A hotly debated bill in the House would authorize a third casino in the southern part of the state. It was defeated 83-61 last week, but might be back for another round.
The bill would allow for a bidding process in York or Cumberland Counties. Lawmakers representing those areas have collided head first with representatives of the areas where there are existing casinos, the Hollywood Casino in Bangor and the Oxford Casino in Oxford County.
The legislative battle began last year and was revived two months ago in the Veterans the Legal Affairs Committee, which voted to advance a version of the bill.
Proponents say the state could benefit from a proposed $50 million licensing fee. They also point to provisions of the bill that would unify standards for how casino revenues are distributed, which are different for the two existing facilities.
Proponents point out that the bill would appeal to different interest groups by giving each legislator something for his or her constituency from the additional casino money.
Supporter Rep. Wayne Parry said that a casino in the south would add to the tourism of the area and would, in addition, draw business from out of state.
“You don’t get a lot of money for Maine if you take it from one pocket to put it in another pocket,” said Parry.
The Maine Harness Horseman’s Association supports the proposal, which earmarks funds to assist the industry. Veterans groups also support it, and for similar reasons.
In a related development a ballot measure that would authorize a casino in York County is in limbo after the Secretary of State’s office determined that more than half of the signatures submitted were not valid. The campaign has gone to court to challenge the ruling.
The measure would benefit Shawn Scott, who, under its wording, would be the only permission eligible to build a casino at an undisclosed location in York County.
