Maine also becomes the first state to embrace online gambling in 2026
Maine has officially become the ninth US state to legalize online poker, marking another step in the slow return of regulated internet poker nationwide. For players in one of the country’s most rural states, the move opens the door to legal online play for the first time in more than a decade.
Online poker vanished across the US in 2011 following federal action tied to the shutdown of major poker sites. Since then, states have taken their own paths toward regulation, with progress coming gradually. Maine’s decision adds momentum to that recovery, even with its relatively small population of about 1.4 million.
Poker remains a popular game in the US, with millions of Americans playing each year. The country is also home to a large share of the world’s top professional players. Each new state that allows online poker helps strengthen the overall market and signals continued demand.
Maine joins states such as Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia in permitting online poker. Under the new law, control of online poker and casino gaming will rest with Maine’s four federally recognized tribes. Each tribe will be allowed to partner with a single platform provider to offer games.
The bill, LD 1164, became law after passing without a formal veto. Governor Janet Mills acknowledged concerns about gambling but said regulation was the better path forward. Oversight will fall to the Maine Gambling Control Unit, which will set rules and standards.
A 10% tax on adjusted gaming revenue will support the tribes, along with funding for addiction services and emergency care. One challenge remains liquidity, as the law currently prevents the Pine Tree State from joining multi-state poker networks.
Regulatory work still needs to be completed, but online poker is expected to launch within the next year. After more than 15 years without legal access, Maine players appear closer than ever to returning to the virtual tables.
