Legislation to allow and regulate online casino-style gaming, along with sports wagering, was signed last week by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Online casino-style gaming and sports betting will now be allowed for those 21 and older through casinos already operating in Michigan, including Detroit’s three casinos and tribal casinos across the state. The new laws deal with fantasy sports, charitable gaming, and horse racing as well as sports betting and casino-style gaming.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board will regulate online gaming with built-in safety features and strict state oversight – including age verification systems and protections against fraud. In-play sports betting will be based on official information provided by sports leagues such as the National Football League, National Basketball Association, and others.
According to Michigan House Republicans, the bipartisan bill, “will improve essential public services without asking Michigan taxpayers to pay more at the gas pump or grocery store.” They also assured “Several safeguards will be in place to protect and grow education funding, including a provision to ensure online games offered by casinos do not directly compete with games sponsored by the Michigan Lottery.”
A portion of revenue from the reforms will go to a state fund that compensates first responders for lost wages and medical benefits if they get cancer from fighting fires. Another portion will be dedicated to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund to help those in need access treatment and prevention programs.
Reporting for WGRT, Karly Hurley.
