Maine’s only in-person sportsbook, Oddfellahs, is facing uncertainty as state officials debate whether it can continue operating under its current license. The bar’s license was temporarily revoked in January due to legal concerns, but a judge allowed it to reopen in February with a temporary stay. The public safety commissioner now holds the bar’s fate as officials debate whether a commercial track betting license can extend to a sports bar.
Owner Michael Cianchette used a commercial track betting license for horse racing at Oddfellahs to offer sports betting. Initially, the head of Maine’s Gambling Control Unit saw no issue with this interpretation of the law, but an email from the attorney general’s office suggested otherwise. Cianchette believes competitors pressured the attorney general to reconsider, potentially leading to the license dispute.
If Oddfellahs must reapply as an off-track betting facility, it could face closure under state law prohibiting two facilities within 35 miles of each other. Cianchette expressed frustration, noting his intention was to strengthen harness racing in Maine, not solely operate a sportsbook. Closing arguments will soon be submitted, and the Maine Department of Public Safety’s commissioner will decide the bar’s fate.
For more updates on local stories, viewers can use the NEWS CENTER Maine+ streaming app. Additionally, breaking news, weather, and traffic alerts are available on the NEWS CENTER Maine mobile app.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
