PORTLAND, Maine — A longstanding Maine casino operator has joined a legal dispute over plans to expand ferry access to Block Island, arguing the project could unfairly alter the region’s gaming landscape.
Oxford Casino, one of Maine’s most prominent casinos, filed suit this week, claiming Rhode Island officials have created an uneven playing field by approving new transportation infrastructure without fully considering the economic impact.
The dispute centers on a proposed upgrade to improve travel routes to Block Island, a popular tourist destination that attracts seasonal gambling traffic.
The lawsuit contends the project could divert gamblers, tourism revenue, and entertainment spending from neighboring states, including Maine, while primarily benefiting a small group of businesses linked to the island economy.
Rhode Island officials maintain the transportation project is intended to support tourism and public access, not casino competition. The case underscores the heightened sensitivity in New England’s gaming industry as states compete for a limited pool of visitors.
Offshore Online Gambling Adds Pressure in Maine
While the legal dispute unfolds, Maine’s gambling industry faces a different form of competition that does not involve ferries or physical casinos.
Online casino sites that accept players from Maine, despite the state’s lack of legalized online casino gaming. These platforms, often based outside the United States, offer digital slot games, roulette, and sports betting options that are not regulated by Maine authorities.
Industry observers say that the growth of offshore betting has made brick-and-mortar operators increasingly concerned about losing customers not only to other states but also to international online platforms. Many players often gravitate towards online gambling sites for their extended slot libraries, cryptocurrency banking options, and bigger bonus rewards. And since there are no domestic online casino options, players often choose the convenience of online gambling apps.
Maine Lawmakers Still Divided on Online Expansion
Maine lawmakers have debated expanding online gambling access, but proposals have stalled due to concerns about addiction, consumer protection, and tribal gaming rights. Supporters argue that regulation could bring offshore activity into a safer, taxable system. Critics contend it could expand gambling access with limited oversight.
Currently, Maine residents who gamble online often use international gambling services, which continues to frustrate in-state casino operators already facing a competitive New England market.
As gambling expands across state lines and into digital spaces, legal disputes such as the Block Island lawsuit highlight the increasing stakes, even before any games begin.
Current State Of Gambling In Maine
Maine permits regulated gambling, such as in-person casino gaming and legal online sports betting, but domestic online casino-style gambling is still illegal under state gambling laws. Residents cannot legally place bets on online slots or digital table games with licensed Maine operators; however, offshore sites can accept players because there are no federal laws that forbid their access. Lawmakers have considered expanding online gambling, but no bill has passed the Legislature at the time of this writing.