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Gov. Janet Mills on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, signed LD 1164 into law, officially legalizing online casino operations in Maine. With the move, Maine becomes the eighth state to legalize online casinos in the US.
Once operational, the industry will be overseen by the Wabanaki Nations, marking a significant policy shift. The decision comes despite prior public opposition, with 64% of Maine voters previously voting against online gambling. Supporters say the new law represents a meaningful step toward economic self-sufficiency for the tribes by creating a stable and long-term revenue source.
Governor says regulation will mitigate gambling risks
In her announcement, Mills said she gave the bill thorough consideration and remains concerned about gambling’s broader social effects. However, she said regulated online casinos are preferable to unregulated alternatives.
She expressed confidence that Maine’s Gambling Control Unit will establish clear rules and enforcement standards to ensure accountability among operators while guaranteeing that the Wabanaki Nations receive the intended economic benefits. Mills added that she has long worked alongside tribal leaders to strengthen tribal economic stability and said she hopes the new revenue stream will support that goal.
Wabanaki leaders praise Maine online casino law
Leaders from the Wabanaki Nations strongly support the bill and welcomed its passage into law. Chief William Nicholas Sr. of the Passamaquoddy Tribe thanked Mills for advancing tribal economic development following her announcement.
Nicholas said Mills’ decision to allow LD 1164 to become law represents a defining moment for the Passamaquoddy people and all Wabanaki Nations. He also credited her earlier support for Maine’s mobile sports betting market with improving economic conditions at the tribal, community and household levels.
According to Nicholas, policy changes enacted under Mills’ leadership have helped make tribal economies more resilient. He said her two terms in office have demonstrated a consistent commitment to tribal self-governance and long-term prosperity.
Revenue generated from online casinos is expected to help fund essential services such as health care, education and law enforcement, along with infrastructure projects and cultural initiatives that benefit the broader community.
Public concerns persist over online gambling risks
Despite tribal support, public opposition remains significant. A poll conducted by NAAiG found that 64% of Maine voters opposed legalizing online casinos, with 49% strongly opposed. The opposition spans party lines, including Democrats, Republicans and independents.
Critics cite concerns about gambling addiction, underage gambling and the potential financial strain on families and social services. Some voters also expressed alarm over 24/7 access to gambling via smartphones, particularly for children. Others noted that Maine could become the only state in New England to permit iGaming, as neighboring states have rejected similar proposals.
Addressing those concerns, Mills said online casinos will be subject to strict oversight by the Gambling Control Unit. She noted that Maine already has programs in place to address gambling addiction and said those initiatives will be expanded under the new law to protect public health.
When will online casinos launch in Maine?
State officials have not yet announced a launch date for online casino gaming in Maine. Under the law, each of the state’s four federally recognized tribes may partner with one third-party operator.
Two tribes have already aligned with DraftKings and Caesars, respectively, meaning both companies are expected to operate in the state once online casino gaming begins. The remaining two tribes have not yet announced partnerships but are expected to do so in the coming months.
Maine sets precedent as other states watch closely
Mills’ decision to sign LD 1164 marks a major milestone for the Wabanaki Nations, whose leaders view the law as a pathway to sustainable economic growth. At the same time, concerns about the social and health impacts of online gambling persist.
Attention now turns to Maine’s Gambling Control Unit as it develops regulatory frameworks for the industry. Meanwhile, other states, including New York and Virginia, may look to Maine’s model as they consider legislation to legalize real-money online casinos.
