The U.S. state of Maine, in the northeastern U.S., this week made into law the previously approved bill that legalizes online poker and casino in the territory. With this novelty, the country now has nine of its 50 states with online poker practice permitted.
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Seven months ago, Maine lawmakers approved the bill to release online poker and casino, reverting revenues to local indigenous tribes. On the 8th, the deadline for approval by the governor expired. Thus, the law came into effect, as the state’s legislation states that bills approved by the chamber that have not been sanctioned become valid after the deadline.
However, Maine Governor Janet Mills spoke out in favor of the merit. “Last fall, I met with five chiefs of the Wabanaki tribes, and they told me how important the approval of this bill would be for the communities,” she revealed. “The law will provide life-changing revenue for the population, as well as give them economic autonomy,” Mills added.
The governor also highlighted concerns but believes in the regulators’ good work. “I looked carefully at this proposal, as I am concerned about the impacts of gambling on public health. I believe this new way of playing should be regulated, and I believe the Maine Gambling Control Unit will develop rules to hold providers accountable while benefiting the tribes,” declared the Democrat.
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Maine could become part of the online poker pool in the U.S.
With only about 1.4 million inhabitants, Maine by itself is not an attractive market for poker and casino operators. However, in the case of the mind sport, there is now the possibility of the state joining other territories in MSIGA, the pool that brings together players from states where online poker is regulated in a single field.
Currently, in addition to Maine, eight other U.S. states allow online poker: Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, West Virginia, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Of these, only Connecticut is not part of MSIGA. From the moment it integrates this pool, Maine should receive services from operators such as PokerStars, WSOP Online, and BetMGM.
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