Can not be stained--it is not wood it is plastic.

Does that mean it can be painted?

Yes laminate floors can be painted. Google the process.

It depends on the laminate. Is it a true laminate or engineered wood or is it a composite material with the plastic "photo of wood grain". A true engineered wood could possibly be sanded and restained but I would not recommend it. The finishes are put on to stay on. You could paint them but never paint over the composite floor as paint will not properly adhere to the surface of the floor.

All in all, I agree with River Valley and you should just replace the floor. The maintenance issues will be overwhelming.

You could probably get an inexpensive laminate remnant if you don't have a huge area that needs replacing. We did that years ago when we remodeled our bathrooms, and money was tight. My husband and a contractor friend laid it. It's still in great shape 16 years later. Check remnant stores.