Maine Governor Janet Mills Signs Law Prohibiting Sweepstakes Casinos and Restricting Credit Card Usage

Governor Janet Mills signs LD 2007, banning sweepstakes casinos in Maine with fines up to $100,000. New rules also prohibit credit cards for sports wagering.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 11:18 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Gambling Insider

Maine Enacts Comprehensive Prohibition On Digital Sweepstakes Platforms

Maine has solidified its stance against unregulated online gambling as Governor Janet Mills signed LD 2007 into law. Officially titled “An Act Regarding the Prohibition of Online Sweepstakes Games,” the measure establishes a stringent regulatory framework that reclassifies several prominent online platforms as illegal gambling entities. By targeting the specific operational mechanics of these sites, Maine joins a growing list of jurisdictions seeking to eliminate loopholes used by social casinos. The legislation is expected to become enforceable in mid-July 2026, roughly 90 days after the current legislative session concludes.

Targeting The Dual Currency Architecture Of Online Casinos

The core of the new law lies in its precise definition of online sweepstakes games, specifically those accessible via mobile devices or computers that simulate casino experiences like slots, poker, or bingo. According to the statutory language, the ban focuses on the “dual-currency system of payment,” where users are encouraged to purchase virtual tokens to obtain credits that are ultimately exchangeable for cash or prizes. By defining “direct consideration” to include tokens received through promotions or bonuses, the law effectively dismantled the legal defense that these platforms do not constitute traditional gambling.

Severe Financial Penalties And Mandatory License Revocation

Enforcement under LD 2007 is structured through heavy civil penalties designed to deter both operators and their promoters. Violations of the new statutes carry fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per instance, with all collected funds earmarked for the state’s Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund. Beyond monetary hits, the legislation contains a "kill switch" for existing industry participants, any licensed gambling operator found in violation of these sweepstakes rules will face the mandatory revocation of their professional licenses, ensuring total compliance across the state’s gaming ecosystem.