Decrease in Gambling Income by 2.8% from the Previous Year in Maine's Casinos (June)
The gambling industry in Maine is currently in a state of flux, with the future of online casino gaming still uncertain. Governor Janet Mills' decision not to sign or veto a bill that would have legalized online casinos (iGaming) in Maine has effectively postponed the legalization until at least 2026 [1][2][3][4].
This decision could have significant implications for the state's commercial casinos, Hollywood Casino in Bangor and Oxford Casino. In June 2025, these casinos reported a combined net revenue of $13.7 million [5]. However, this figure does not include potential income from iGaming, as it has not been introduced in Maine yet.
The revenue figures reveal a notable difference in the individual performances of the two casinos. Hollywood Casino in Bangor had a strong performance, generating $5.7 million in June 2025, a 9% increase from the $5.2 million it made in June 2024 [5]. On the other hand, Oxford Casino's revenue dropped by nearly 10%, falling from $8.9 million in June 2024 to $8 million in June 2025 [6]. This represents a 2.8% decrease from the $14.1 million reported in June 2024.
The drop in Oxford Casino's revenue wiped out any gains made by Hollywood Casino in Bangor, as the increase in Bangor's revenue was not enough to offset the decrease at Oxford Casino [1]. The evolution of Maine's gambling industry continues, with the possibility of iGaming being introduced, pending further legislative action [7].
The delay in implementing iGaming in Maine could have a significant impact on the overall revenue of the commercial casinos in the state. Table games contributed nearly $2 million to the total revenue of the casinos in June 2025 [5]. Slot machines generated a combined $11.7 million across both casinos in June 2025 [6].
Opposition to the bill comes from various quarters, including Governor Janet Mills, who opposes expanding gambling, including iGaming [2][4]. The bill would give exclusive online casino rights to the state’s four Wabanaki Nations tribes, excluding the state’s two existing brick-and-mortar casinos [1][3]. If the bill is revisited in the 2026 session, Mills will again have the opportunity to sign, veto, or take no action [3].
As of mid-2025 and continuing into 2026, Maine does not yet have legal online casino gambling. The final decision rests with the governor and lawmakers in the next legislative session. The political and regulatory resistance indicates that near-term approval faces significant hurdles [1][4].
References:
- Maine Beacon
- Portland Press Herald
- Maine Gambling Control Unit
- Associated Press
- Maine Gambling Control Unit
- Portland Press Herald
- Maine Gambling Control Unit
- The current delay in implementing iGaming in Maine may provoke a shift in focus for commercial casinos like Hollywood Casino and Oxford Casino, potentially exploring alternative revenue streams such as casino games and lotteries.
- The future of the gambling industry in Maine could witness a significant expansion if online casino gaming (iGaming) is legalized, potentially bringing new casino games, lotteries, and other digital offerings to the state's gambling landscape.
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