Maine Gambling Control Unit Holds Public Hearing
On January 31, the MGCU held a public hearing on its proposed sports betting regulations. Strong opposition was directed toward the advertising rules (Chapter 64).
The Maine Association of Broadcasters (supported by the National Association of Broadcasters) testified that the restrictions were illegal, unreasonable, inequitable, and unfeasible. It was strongly inferred that adoption of the rules as proposed would lead to significant litigation that the broadcasters would likely win on First Amendment grounds. The particular provisions opposed by the broadcasters were the 10-day review provision, the celebrities/entertainers/athletes prohibition, the bonuses/promotions advertising prohibition, and commercials being restricted to during live sporting events and only on the stations broadcasting the events. The hearing can be viewed here and more background information can be accessed here.