Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD213

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  
Engrossed
5/20/25  

Caption

An Act to Increase the Sales Commission of Retailers Selling Lottery Tickets

Impact

If enacted, LD213 would primarily amend the existing laws governing lottery ticket sales and the commissions received by retailers. The increase in the minimum sales commission to 10% is intended to create a more appealing proposition for retailers, which may lead to an increase in participation in the lottery program and ultimately higher lottery sales. This move could provide a more stable financial environment for lottery retailers, especially in communities that rely on lottery revenues for local funding or economic support.

Summary

LD213 aims to increase the minimum sales commission for retailers who sell lottery tickets from the current baseline to 10%. This legislative change is intended to enhance the financial incentives for businesses participating in the lottery system, thereby promoting greater sales of lottery products. By ensuring a consistent commission rate for both instant lottery games and draw games, the bill seeks to standardize the business opportunities for retailers across the state, thereby likely increasing their revenue and potentially boosting lottery ticket sales overall.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD213 seems to be generally positive among stakeholders involved in the lottery industry. Retailers support the increase in commissions as it ensures that their efforts are adequately compensated, fostering a more robust participation in selling lottery tickets. However, it may also generate discussions around the implications of increased lottery sales on local communities, particularly regarding responsible gambling practices and the potential socio-economic impacts of lottery participation.

Contention

While the bill appears to have support from retailers, there may be concerns from advocacy groups focused on gambling addiction and responsible gaming. Critiques may arise regarding the promotion of lottery sales as a viable economic strategy, given potential adverse effects on local populations, especially in vulnerable communities. The bill's passage could prompt a larger discussion on the balance between economic gain from increased lottery revenues and the social responsibility of promoting gaming activities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1125

Resolve, Directing the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations to Study Paying Bonuses to Agents for Selling Certain Winning Lottery Tickets

ME LD2213

An Act to Support Nonprofit Organizations and Federally Recognized Indian Tribes by Authorizing the Operation of Electronic Lucky Seven or Similar Sealed Ticket Devices and Updating the High-stakes Beano Law

ME LD2127

An Act to Increase the Number of Commissioners on the Public Utilities Commission

ME LD1914

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study Pathways for Creating a Psilocybin Services Program in Maine

ME LD608

Resolve, to Improve Outcomes for Participants in the Antlerless Deer Permit Lottery

ME LD2112

An Act to Replace the Money Transmitters Act

ME LD2277

Resolve, Authorizing the Commissioner of Administrative and Financial Services to Convey by Sale the Interests of the State in 3 Properties Located in Biddeford, Sanford and York

ME LD2047

An Act to Increase the Expenditure Limit for Informal Bidding Processes and Update References to the Office of Procurement Services

ME LD196

An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Probate and Trust Law Advisory Commission for Amending the Maine Uniform Probate Code and Related Provisions of Law

ME LD2290

An Act to Correct Inconsistencies, Conflicts and Errors in the Laws of Maine

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.