Maine Tribes Allowed to Intervene in Online Gaming Lawsuit

Churchill Downs Inc. sued to block Maine’s online gaming bill from going into effect. A federal judge allowed the Wabanaki Nations to intervene in the case. The Wabanaki Nations include the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, and Mi’kmaq Nation.

The bill legalized online casinos and poker through the state’s four federally-recognized tribal groups. The bill becomes law 90 days after the legislative session ends, scheduled for mid-July. Churchill Downs Inc. alleges that the proposal is illegal and violates the Equal Protection Clauses of the U.S. and Maine constitutions.

Lenny Powell represents the Wabanaki Nations. He told the Portland Press that the lawsuit undermines a legal partnership between tribes and the state. Maine online casinos could be in business in 2027 if the court case doesn’t delay a launch.