In a stunning turn of events, Maine lawmakers have recently resurrected and ultimately killed a bill that would have allowed tribal nations in the state to offer online gambling. The bill, LD 197, was initially introduced earlier this year by Democratic Rep. Rachel Talbot Ross, who represents Portland. The proposal aimed to give the state’s four federally recognized tribes the permission to operate online gambling platforms, including poker games and slot machines.
Supporters of the bill argued that allowing tribes to offer online gambling would not only help boost revenue for tribal communities but also provide additional entertainment options for residents in the state. Proponents also pointed out that neighboring states, such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have successfully implemented online gambling initiatives and have seen an increase in revenue as a result.
However, not everyone in Maine was on board with the idea. Some lawmakers raised concerns about the potential negative social impacts of online gambling, including addiction and financial hardship. In addition, there were also questions about whether the state’s existing gambling laws would need to be amended in order to accommodate tribal online gambling.
Despite these reservations, the bill managed to gain traction and was initially approved by the state legislature. However, Republican Gov. Janet Mills ultimately decided to veto the bill, citing concerns about the potential social costs of expanded gambling. In a statement, Governor Mills explained, “While I understand the economic benefits that could come from allowing tribes to operate online gambling platforms, I am not convinced that the potential social costs are worth the gamble.”
The decision to veto the bill came as a surprise to many, especially since Governor Mills has been a vocal supporter of tribal rights in the past. However, the veto was ultimately sustained by the state legislature, effectively killing the bill for the time being.
It remains to be seen whether tribal online gambling will resurface as a topic of discussion in Maine in the future. In the meantime, tribal leaders and advocates are left disappointed by the outcome, while opponents of the bill celebrate what they see as a victory for public health and safety. Maine lawmakers may have revived and killed the tribal online gambling bill, but the debate over the issue is far from over.
