The possibility of Maine banning sweepstakes casinos moved another step closer to becoming a reality. The Maine Joint Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs held a work session on February 18 regarding Legislative Document 2007 that advanced by an 8-2 vote.
This sends the legislation back to the full Senate for the next stage of consideration. The Maine anti-sweepstakes casino bill, which was filed on December 3, targets dual-currency sweeps platforms. Here is a snippet from the bill summary explaining why sweepstakes casinos are considered “unlawful gambling:”
“This bill clarifies that operating or promoting an online sweepstakes game constitutes ‘unlawful gambling’ within the meaning of the Maine Criminal Code and establishes additional civil penalties related to that unlawful conduct.”
In June, Milton Champion, Executive Director of the Gambling Control Unit, issued a warning to residents and visitors regarding illegal interactive gaming websites and apps operating in the Pine Tree State. The letter specifically mentions dual-currency sweepstakes or social casino sites offering real-money payouts, material prizes, or gift cards. Sweepstakes casinos currently operating in Maine are not licensed by the Maine Gambling Control Unit.
Other states like Illinois and Michigan have sent cease-and-desist letters directly to operators. Earlier this month, the Illinois Gaming Board issued 60-plus cease-and-desist letters directly to Chumba Casino, Real Prize, Crown Coins and many other popular brands.
When Champion spoke with lawmakers, he shared data that there are about 60 sweepstakes casinos operating in Maine.
Maine is one of several U.S. jurisdictions where lawmakers are considering banning sweepstakes platforms. However, Maine’s situation is a little different than Maryland, Mississippi, Indiana, and Virginia as the Pine Tree State is much closer to having a legal real-money online casino market. Maine Gov. Janet Mills has signed LD 1164 into law. The legislation authorizes Maine’s tribal governments to operate online gambling. It will support tribal communities and economic development. The four tribes of the Wabanaki Nations will have exclusive control of iGaming.
The potential launch date is TBD as the Maine Gambling Control Unit must first set industry rules and regulations.
With real money online casinos coming soon, the door remains cracked open for Maine sweepstakes casino operators. If the ban does happen, Maine would join Connecticut, New York, California, and several other states that now prohibit social gaming platforms.
