DETROIT – The Michigan House approved consumer protections and modernization of Michigan’s gaming laws to incorporate sports betting and online and mobile technology, according to a press release from Rep. Brandt Iden.
Next, the multi-bill package goes to the Senate for consideration. The package deals with casino-style gaming, fantasy sports, charitable gaming and horse racing, as well as sports betting.
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The package would provide regulatory framework for sports betting. This comes after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a federal law that bars gambling on football, basketball, baseball and other sports in most states, giving states the go-ahead to legalize betting on sports.
“Thousands of Michigan residents are already wagering on sports or playing casino-style games online – but they are either traveling to other states to play legally, or staying home to wager illegally on risky sites with no consumer protections or benefits to our state,” said Iden, of Oshtemo Township in Kalamazoo County. “We are making great progress on this plan to move sports betting and gaming into a safer, regulated, and modern environment – but we are falling behind other states and we must move forward. The longer we delay, the longer we put our citizens at risk, and the longer we miss out on economic benefits and needed revenue for schools and public services.”
Internet gaming and sports betting would be allowed for people 21 and older through casinos already operating in Michigan. The Michigan Gaming Control Board would regulate internet gaming.
“Michigan is one of the most complex states in the nation when it comes to gaming – with commercial casinos, tribal casinos and a robust lottery,” Iden said. “We have been working on these reforms for more than two years and we are getting closer. We are demonstrating Michigan can be a leader when it comes to crafting complex yet necessary legislation to protect its residents and foster economic growth.