Maine Regulator Issues Warning Over Illegal Online Casinos

Michael Savio
By: Michael Savio
Responsible Gambling
Photo by Dennis Sylvester Hurd, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo by Dennis Sylvester Hurd, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Key Takeaways

  • The MGCU reminded Maine residents that online casinos remain illegal
  • Some real-money operators are disguising themselves as sweepstakes platforms
  • A bill proposing a regulated online casino market will be reviewed in a special session

The Pine Tree State is sounding the alarm over illegal gambling operators.

The Maine Gambling Control Unit (MGCU) issued a public statement warning residents about online casino operators. While the industry remains illegal in Maine, the regulator confirmed that they have seen a growth in the number of operators targeting residents. 

The statement reminded residents that this type of gaming is illegal and confirmed that the state cannot assist bettors with any issues they may have with these operators.

Fake Sweepstakes Sites on the Rise

While most people in Maine know that real-money online casinos remain illegal, operators are finding ways to disguise themselves. 

One popular tactic has been posing as a sweepstakes platform, offering the option to win real money or digital currency. The sweepstakes industry remains unregulated across the US, making it easier for illegal platforms to operate. This has led many states to ban the industry altogether, despite its growing popularity.

Illegal Operators Fuel Rise in Problem Gambling

Maine hasn’t legalized online casino games, but it has opened up some forms of gambling. The state allows for regulated sports betting, daily fantasy sports, and advanced-deposit wagering for horse racing. This has led to an uptick in problem gambling for the market, which illegal online casinos are helping feed.

Many other markets have been taking legal action to push these operators out, but that hasn’t always been effective with online casinos. That has shifted the state’s focus on promoting awareness to save residents from making a costly mistake.

The MGCU has also reminded the public of its problem gambling resources, which can help bettors struggling with illegal online gambling.

Special Session to Review Casino Bill

The growth of illegal operators has given some momentum to a proposal for a regulated online casino market. Lawmakers previously tabled LD 1164, which would have created a regulated market run by the state’s tribes. However, the bill is now set to be reconsidered during a special session, which runs until June 18.

While it seems unlikely the bill will become law in 2025, it shows that some lawmakers believe a regulated market is the only way to protect bettors. This would give residents a chance to play games legally, but with platforms that are monitoring for signs of problem gambling. It would also provide a significant boost to the state’s tax revenue, enabling it to increase funding for responsible gaming resources.

Michael is an avid sports fan and a veteran bettor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He learned the trade from his grandfather in Las Vegas as a kid. As an adult, Michael started picking games for a small sports betting site and has built it into a career. His experience allows him to provide tips and information to help other bettors improve their game. Michael cheers for all Wisconsin pro teams, the Arizona State Sun Devils (his alma mater), and the Ottawa Senators. He specializes in baseball betting but has extensive experience in football, basketball, and hockey. When he isn’t pouring over stats, he’s spending time with his two young children or hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

All Reviews by Michael Savio
Michael Savio

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