Caesars launching iGaming operations in Maine through extended Tribal partnership

Caesars Entertainment has expanded upon its existing partnership with three Wabanaki Nations Tribes – the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Mi’kmaq Nation and Penobscot Nation – to launch iGaming operations in Maine. 

The operator originally partnered with the Tribes to introduce its sportsbook offering to Maine residents during 2023, and expects to follow suit with iGaming by the conclusion of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. 

“As we look ahead to the launch of online casino gaming in Maine, we’re proud to expand our partnership with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation and the Penobscot Nation,” Caesars Digital President Eric Hession said. 

“Together, we’ve built a strong and responsible sports wagering experience, and this next phase reinforces our commitment to our tribal partners and to delivering a differentiated, localized digital gaming experience for Mainers. We’re grateful to Gov. Janet Mills, the Maine Legislature and the Maine Gambling Control Unit for their continued leadership and thoughtful approach to gaming in the state.”

Maine authorized Tribal governments across the state to begin conducting iGaming operations following Governor Janet Mills’ decision to sign LD 1164 into law on January 8. 

Caesars also confirmed plans to invest in local workforce development by employing and training members of each Tribe, as well as providing “meaningful” financial support to help fund Tribal community programs and initiatives.

Penobscot Nation Chief Kirk Francis spoke on the extended partnership, having said, “Penobscot Nation is proud to continue and expand our partnership with Caesars as we look toward the future of online gaming in Maine.

“Our experience working together on sports wagering has demonstrated the value of aligning with a partner that respects our sovereignty, understands our communities and is committed to long-term success for the Wabanaki Nations. This next phase represents a meaningful opportunity to build on that foundation.”

While Caesars managed to grow its partnership with Tribal communities in Maine, the operator is currently engaged in a lawsuit filed by the Cayuga Nation in New York, which alleges Caesars conducted unauthorized gaming on Tribal lands. 

Representing the first instance of a Tribe suing a state-licensed operator for running unauthorized mobile wagering within its reservation, Cayuga Nation accused Caesars Sportsbook of accepting wagers from users who were present on Indian lands. 

Such actions are also in violation of the Tribe’s gaming ordinance, while federal and Nation laws allegedly prohibit the type of gaming conducted by Caesars Sportsbook within Cayuga Nation’s reservation.