Caesars Entertainment said on June 25, 2026 that it would expand its existing Maine partnership with three Wabanaki nations to include online casino gambling.
The move is aimed at the state’s new iGaming framework, which was set to take effect July 29 with rulemaking already underway. Online table games could arrive sometime this year or early in 2027.
Caesars already operates sports betting in Maine with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Penobscot Nation and the Mi’kmaq Nation. Under both the sports betting law and the iGaming law, each nation can secure a license for gambling operations that can be run by an outside partner.
Under Maine’s iGaming structure, revenue from online gaming is taxed at an 18% state rate. A proposed state rule would also set a hard ceiling for the operator’s cut of gross revenues at 40%, leaving no less than 42% of revenue for the tribes.
The Maine Legislature estimated iGaming operations could generate $20 million statewide in fiscal 2026-27. Revenue distribution materials from the Maine Gambling Control Unit describe an 18% collection from adjusted gross Internet gaming receipts for forwarding to the Treasurer of State.
In its announcement, Caesars said the expanded agreement would bring three online casino brands to Maine: Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars Sportsbook & Casino and Horseshoe Online Casino. It also said its online casino platforms would integrate with Caesars Sportsbook and use a single login and wallet experience powered by Caesars’ Universal Digital Wallet.
Caesars said the platforms would also integrate with Caesars Rewards, with eligible play unlocking Reward Credits that can be redeemed across Caesars’ destinations nationwide.
Caesars said it would invest in local workforce development by employing, training and developing members of each nation. It also said it would provide financial support to help fund tribal community programs and initiatives.
Tribal leaders backed the shift, with Clarissa Sabattis of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians saying internet gaming revenues would provide “a more secure, long-term source of revenue” for essential services and community infrastructure.
Maine’s iGaming law became effective without Gov. Janet Mills’ signature, according to reporting and the state’s proposed language document, which also describes the Director of the Gambling Control Unit’s role in adopting rules to administer and enforce Internet Gaming laws.
As rules progressed, the Maine Gambling Control Unit listed an initial notice of rulemaking dated May 6, 2026. Its materials also listed a Notice of Public Hearing on July 15, 2026, with written comment due July 27, 2026.
Separate from the rollout, Oxford Casino was reported to be suing the state over the iGaming law.
With a July 15 public hearing scheduled and the iGaming law due to take effect July 29, Maine’s internet gaming rules were poised to move quickly after June’s late-stage filings and comments.
