summary
Introduced
12/03/2025
12/03/2025
In Committee
12/03/2025
12/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
132nd Legislature
Bill Summary
This bill clarifies that operating or promoting an online sweepstakes game constitutes "unlawful gambling" within the meaning of the Maine Criminal Code and establishes additional civil penalties related to that unlawful conduct. The bill impacts online games or contests that use a dual-currency system of payment and that simulate casino-style gaming, including, but not limited to, slot machines, poker and other table games, lottery games, bingo or sports wagering. "Dual-currency system of payment" refers to the practice of using more than one system of coins or tokens to facilitate game play and is further defined in the bill. The bill provides that a person that operates or promotes an online sweepstakes game is subject to a fine of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000. The bill requires that all fines collected be distributed to the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund. Under the bill, if a person is found to operate or promote an online sweepstakes game and that person holds a license with the Gambling Control Unit or Gambling Control Board within the Department of Public Safety to operate certain gambling activities, the licensing entity must revoke that license. A person that violates the online sweepstakes games prohibition is also ineligible to receive one of the licenses specified by the bill.
AI Summary
This bill prohibits online sweepstakes games by establishing clear legal definitions and penalties for their operation. The legislation defines an online sweepstakes game as an internet-based game using a "dual-currency system of payment" that simulates casino-style gaming like slots, poker, or lottery games. Specifically, the bill creates significant financial and legal consequences for anyone operating or promoting such games, including mandatory fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, which will be collected and distributed to the Gambling Addiction Prevention and Treatment Fund. Additionally, if a person with an existing gambling-related license is found to be operating an online sweepstakes game, their license will be automatically revoked, and they will become ineligible to receive future licenses. The bill also amends the criminal code to explicitly classify operating an online sweepstakes game as "unlawful gambling," providing a comprehensive legal framework to prevent what the state considers to be potentially predatory online gaming practices that could contribute to gambling addiction.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Voted: Divided Report (on 02/18/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=2007&snum=132 |
| BillText | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=SP0825&item=1&snum=132 |
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