Maine Bans Sweepstakes Casinos Under LD 2007

Maine Governor Janet Mills signed LD 2007 on April 6, 2026, prohibiting the operation or promotion of dual-currency online sweepstakes casino games in the state. The law imposes civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation, with proceeds directed toward gambling-addiction treatment programs. The measure took effect in mid-July 2026.

What the Law Does

LD 2007 targets the dual-currency model used by sweepstakes casinos, in which players receive Gold Coins for free-to-play entertainment alongside a second, redeemable currency such as Sweeps Coins that can be exchanged for cash prizes. Under the new law, operating or promoting this type of dual-currency sweepstakes casino format is illegal in Maine. Companies found in violation face civil penalties of $10,000 to $100,000 for each violation, with the collected funds earmarked for gambling-addiction treatment services in the state.

What It Means for Maine Players

With LD 2007 in effect, sweepstakes casino operators offering dual-currency play, meaning platforms that let users redeem winnings for cash or cash-equivalent prizes, are barred from operating or advertising in Maine. Players in the state should expect that sweepstakes casino brands relying on this redeemable-currency model will no longer be accessible in Maine as of the law's mid-July 2026 effective date.

The available data does not specify which individual brands have exited the Maine market. Players should check directly with any platform they use to confirm current availability in the state.

It is worth noting that gold-coin-only social casino play, where users play purely for entertainment with no path to cash redemption, is generally unaffected by laws targeting dual-currency sweepstakes models. However, the data provided does not confirm whether gold-coin-only versions of previously available platforms remain accessible in Maine following LD 2007's implementation.

Part of a Wider 2025-26 Crackdown

Maine's action under LD 2007 fits into a broader pattern of state-level scrutiny of sweepstakes casinos during the 2025-26 period, as lawmakers in multiple states have moved to restrict or ban the dual-currency sweepstakes model. The Maine law's structure, combining a direct prohibition with civil penalties funding addiction treatment, reflects an approach seen in other states addressing similar platforms during this period. The data provided does not detail specific developments in other states.

Maine players and operators should note that the regulatory landscape for sweepstakes casinos continues to shift across the country, and requirements can change with new legislation or enforcement actions.

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Sweepstakes casino availability and legality can change, and players should verify current law in Maine or any other state before participating in these platforms.