Maine Senator Joe Baldacci has expressed frustration over the delay in launching retail sports betting in the state. Despite the legalization of sports betting in May 2022 and the introduction of online sports betting in November 2023, there has been no progress in opening retail sportsbooks. Baldacci criticized the lack of action in a letter to Milton Champion, the executive director of Maine’s sports betting regulatory agency, calling the situation both surprising and unacceptable.
Maine currently has two sports betting apps operating in the state, Caesars Sportsbook and DraftKings. However, Baldacci believes that the absence of retail sportsbooks is unprecedented and unacceptable. He stated to News Center Maine that there is no other place where such stagnation can be found.
It remains unclear whether Baldacci’s letter will prompt any action to move towards launching retail sports betting or if his concerns will be disregarded. Despite the availability of online sports betting options, many residents and officials in Maine are eager to see the introduction of retail sportsbooks in the state. Baldacci’s criticism sheds light on the need for progress in this area and highlights the current lack of movement in making retail betting a reality in Maine.
Source
Photo credit sportshandle.com