In the US, Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm has revealed that she would support an expansion of gaming in order to raise money and help balance the state\'s nearly $2bn budget deficit.

Issues remain among lawmakers as to what types of gaming will be suitable and how to implement such an expansion. Governor Granholm has been in closed-door talks with Michigan Representative Mike Simpson, the sponsor of legislation to expand gaming in the state. Although both agree that the expansion of gaming in the state will have a positive impact, they disagree on how to get there.

Several options for expanding gaming exist, including a new pull-tab game and the implementation of slot machines at racetracks. Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2004 requiring a state-wide and local vote on most forms of gaming expansion, so this requirement must be factored into the discussion.

Simpson acknowledges that a lawsuit is likely to be filed by Detroit and Native American casinos if gaming is expanded in the state.