It appears Maine will finally launch sports betting as gaming officials said temporary licenses should be ready to be issued for both mobile and online wagering by November.
The Maine Gambling Control Unit (MGCU) has recently submitted proposed rules governing sports betting to the attorney general’s office for review. Shannon Moss, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety, said the state will be ready to act upon the anticipated adoption of these rules by November.
“Temporary or initial licenses will be issued on the day of adoption to allow licensees to go live and offer wagers on sports according to law and rule,” Moss said in a statement.
In 2019, the state passed a bill to legalize sports betting, but it was later vetoed by the governor. However, in 2020, a revised version of the bill was signed into law, paving the way for the launch of Maine sports betting. The legislation allows for both online and retail sports betting, with licensed operators being able to offer a wide range of betting options.
The state’s four tribes, Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy tribes at Indian Township and Pleasant Point, Houlton Band of Maliseets and Mi’kmaq, have control of the licenses. Mobile and online wagering is expected to account for 85 percent of the sports betting market in Maine.
While the launch of Maine sports betting brings with it a multitude of benefits, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main benefits is the potential increase in revenue for the state. Sports betting has proven to be a lucrative industry in other states, and Maine stands to benefit from the additional tax revenue generated through betting activities.
People in Maine who have wanted to wager on sports have had to go across state lines to places like New Hampshire and Rhode Island, who have legalized sports wagering.
Another benefit is that sports betting will create jobs and stimulate economic growth. From sportsbook operators to odds compilers and customer service representatives, the legalization of sports betting will lead to the creation of a whole new sector within the state’s economy.
However, challenges such as responsible gambling and ensuring the integrity of sports competitions need to be carefully managed to maintain a safe and fair betting environment.
