Lawmakers in Maine can’t figure out how to advance an iGaming bill in time
The House of Representatives voted against a proposal on Tuesday that would have granted Wabanaki tribes in Maine the sole authority to conduct internet gambling.
The proposal originated during the Mills administration and aimed to leverage the tribe’s exclusive rights to online sports gambling. It was approved by lawmakers in the previous legislature.
The bill sponsored by Representative Laura Supica failed to pass in the House by a 74-71 vote. It faced overwhelming Republican opposition, with Representative Roger Albert the only one voting in favor.
The proposal seeking to generate $100 million annually for tribes has faced criticism from challengers, who argue that it excludes existing casino operators and could lead to job cuts. Additionally, some have expressed worries about an increase in problem gambling.
Representative David Boyer said he would have supported the idea if internet gaming was open to existing operators. “As much as I want to play online poker, this isn’t the way to do it,” said Boyer. “I’m concerned with the jobs that are at stake in Oxford and Bangor. The tax rates are not comparable. The brick-and-mortar casinos have a very high tax rate.”
Supporters argue that it would help address the history of unfairness against the tribes, which are treated similarly to municipalities since the state settled land claims with them.
Supica says the proposal to allow sports betting could generate $100 million over the next five years for the state. The tax revenue paid to the state will fund various programs, such as gambling addiction programs, emergency housing and emergency 9-1-1 systems.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.
