The Michigan Gaming Control Board has authorised nine operators to begin online sports betting or both online gaming and sports betting at noon on Friday.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board and the state’s commercial and tribal casinos will begin a new era on January 22 with the launch of regulated online gaming and sports betting,” said Richard Kalm, MGCB executive director.
“Michigan residents love sports and, judging by inquiries we’ve received, eagerly anticipate using mobile devices to place bets through the commercial and tribal casinos.
"Online gaming and sports betting will provide the casinos with new ways to engage with customers while the state and local communities will benefit from taxes and payments on wagering revenue.”
The days between authorisation and launch will give the operators and platform providers additional time for testing and adjustments before the gaming goes live, Kalm said.
The MGCB expects to authorise additional operators and platform providers in the coming days and weeks as agency staff review other submissions to ensure they meet the state’s regulatory requirements. Controls to ensure safety and fairness for bettors have been key concerns for the MGCB.
“We want the public to have confidence when they place wagers and our agency has required the providers to prove they meet Michigan’s standards, which are designed to protect the participants,” Kalm said.
