Maine legalizes mobile betting on horseracing

Online betting on horseracing was legalized in Maine last week with Penn National Gaming’s (PNG) Hollywood Casino granted a monopoly on advanced deposit wagering in the state.

Maine residents can now watch and bet on races all around the world via PNG’s Hollywood Racing app or desktop site.

The app allows users to bet via credit card and ACH transactions which transfers funds via credit and debit cards.

PNG VP of racing Christopher McErlean told Maine newspaper Bangor Daily News the app would allow sports bettors in Maine to enjoy races taking place across the world from the comfort of their own home.

“Importantly, a percentage of revenues from Hollywood Races will go to the state and support the harness racing industry in Maine, similar to what is in place at Hollywood Casino,” McErlean said.

Once racing returns in the state in June, bettors will be able to bet on local events online.

Elsewhere, the Maine House of Representatives upheld Governor Mills’ veto of online sports betting in the state in February, meaning wider betting activity will not be legalized for now.