Maine Online Casino Plans Face Rules, Lawsuit and Delay

Maine’s online casino market is legal but not yet operational, with the Maine Gambling Control Unit currently taking public comments on proposed rules until October 30th. A federal lawsuit challenging tribal exclusivity remains unresolved, which could impact the structure of the market. No official launch date has been confirmed, leaving operators' entry into the market dependent on rulemaking and the ongoing legal proceedings.

The proposed rules cover various aspects such as licensing, house rules, wagering systems, cybersecurity, geolocation, responsible gambling, advertising, promotions, contracts, and complaints. However, these proposed regulations do not automatically allow operators to start accepting wagers; final rules and licensing steps still need to be completed.

Churchill Downs, which owns Oxford Casino Hotel, filed a lawsuit in January against Maine's Gambling Control Unit Director Milt Champion over its tribal-exclusive model. The legal challenge centers on language related to race or citizenship, according to the primary report. The case is still pending, and its outcome could influence the market's structure while the rulemaking process determines the requirements operators must meet.

The legalization of online casinos in Maine through LD 1164 didn't immediately result in a launch, as the Gambling Control Unit held meetings in June and August to work through the regulatory process. Another meeting is scheduled for October 20th. Additionally, Maine has also enacted a ban on sweepstakes casinos, with the law taking effect in April.

This distinction between legal authorization and an operating market is also evident in other states, such as Ohio, where the proposed online casino market's timeline remains uncertain.