The Michigan Gaming Control Board has taken another step towards launching online gambling in the state.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has opened the process to accept online gambling supplier licence applications.
This news comes after the state regulator authorized mobile pari-mutuel wagering on horseracing earlier this month.
The application process
The online supplier application forms and relevant information can now be found on the MGCB’s website in a new section dedicated to fantasy sports and online gambling.
The MGCB can issue provisional licenses before the launch of online gambling operations for all suppliers apart from platform providers. Platform providers can still apply for a licence which may be approved after online gambling launches.
Michigan’s regulator also said it will add more forms to its website soon and is currently awaiting feedback on proposed online gambling rules from stakeholders. These stakeholders include the state’s three commercial casinos and the 12 tribes that can offer Class III games.
Richard S. Kalm, MGCB executive director said: “We’ve taken another step toward the launch of online gaming by beginning the licensing process. The MGCB encourages suppliers to file applications soon so we can conduct investigations and issue provisional licenses, which are allowed under state law.
“We continue to make progress on rule promulgation for internet gaming and online sports betting. While we expect to launch these forms of betting by early 2021, we hope it can happen sooner.”
Gambling in Michigan
On 20 December 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed HB 4311 into law, creating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act. Under this law, mobile and online casino gambling is now legal in the state of Michigan. Under the law, the MGCB was granted the power to issue licenses for online and mobile casino gambling.
The state’s governor also approved HB 916, creating the Lawful Sports Betting Act. Under this law, commercial and tribal casinos can offer land-based and online sports betting in Michigan. Governor Whitmer also signed HB 4308 into law, legalizing fantasy sports contests in the state of Michigan.
Michigan’s sports wagering market went live on March 11 with the opening of sportsbooks at Penn National Gaming’s Greektown Casino and the MGM Grand Detroit. Online and mobile sports wagering has yet to go live in the state of Michigan.
