All Sites Licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board
The Top 8 MI Online Casino Sites for 2023
All of the above listed online casino sites in Michigan are licensed and legal entities that have been officially approved by the state regulator – the Michigan Gaming Control Board. This means you can safely deposit, play games and withdraw money without any legal repercussions, as the MGM Grand Detroit, for example, has partnered with its online platform (here – BetMGM Casino) for the people’s convenience.
It’s important to know that all of these online casinos in Michigan accept PayPal, which is a leading global payment processing service and an excellent option when playing online from home or on mobile. To find out more about each individual operator, keep reading our detailed Michigan online casino guide. Or skip ahead using our navigation bar.
The Best MI Online Casino Sites for 2023
- . BetMGM Casino – overall best online casino site in Michigan for real money gambling
- . Golden Nugget Casino – excellent selection of live dealer games & RNG titles
- . DraftKings Casino – great daily promotions, VIP rewards programme & free sweeps coins
- . CEO Casino & Sports – one of the new online casinos in Michigan offering lots of bonuses
- . William Hill Casino – fantastic roulette, blackjack & poker titles plus high payout rates
- . Tyler Creek Casino & Hotel – best Michigan online casino app for iOS & Android smart devices
- . Tropicana Casino – top-rated entertainment platform with bingo, keno & exciting slots
- . Horsemen’s Heaven Casino – generous welcome bonus & regular slot, table game & live dealer deals
- . PokerStars MI Casino – best platform for high-stakes poker games & tournaments
MI Gambling Rights
Gambling laws in the US are managed at both a State and Federal level. Below we outline your real money online gambling options based on complex reasoning including expected enforcement based on historical, current and emerging trends either opposed by, or lacking support from, applicable federal laws, official legislative and regulatory actions and interpretations at the State level and case based legal precedent at the State and Federal level. As a result we can confidently say that individuals in Michigan can:
- Play online within the state boundaries at licensed casinos (see our recommended list below).
- Enjoy a diverse range of real cash games, such as blackjack, roulette, slot machines, poker, and more.
- Take part in online sports betting, daily fantasy sports, and horse race betting at the .
- Legally gamble from home or wherever they might be within the state, so long as they are over the age of 21 and playing at a legally licensed online casino within the WSOP / , , or other state networks.
- Claim casino bonuses and take advantage of special promos and loyalty reward schemes to maximize their winning potential.
The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, signed into law in December 2019, officially legalized all forms of online wagering within the state’s borders, starting in January 2021. Land-based casinos were permitted to offer online gambling through partnerships with existing brands, while also allowing for standalone operators to apply for licenses.
Online sportsbooks, meanwhile, were able to launch in March 2020, making Michigan one of the handfuls of states in America where bettors can enjoy a full suite of regulated gambling options. This came after years of lobbying by interested parties, along with a softening of federal laws against online gaming. However, credit must also be given to the hard work of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) who continue to strive toward improving the industry in the state.
How to Choose the Right Site?
With so many trustworthy Michigan casino sites now available, players will need to consider what factors matter most to them. For some it could simply be a case of heading to whichever platform offers the highest bonus, while others may have their heart set on a particular game that’s only offered at one operator. We highly recommend reading through our expert reviews before signing up though, as there might just be a developer or feature that you haven’t considered.
Casino Players' Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Real Money Online Gambling in Michigan
🏆 Which is the best online casino in MI?
As stated in this very post, the number one online casino in Michigan is BetMGM. In terms of games offered, generous welcome bonuses and ongoing player promotions, and fast payouts, MGM's online branch ticks all the boxes and then some. It is a great place to start exploring the world of online gambling in Michigan!
⚽️ Can I bet on sports and play DFS in Michigan?
Yes, absolutely. Thanks to the Legal Work Force Modernization Act, signed in December 2019, sports betting and DFS are legal in the Great Lake State. On top of that, there are several land-based and online casinos in Michigan, like Golden Nugget and DraftKings, that boast impressive sportsbook sections together with great welcome bonuses.
💰 Are MI casinos online safe?
Of course! Online gambling platforms in Michigan are safe because they are regulated by the state authorities. Another reason why you needn't worry for your safety is that the potential for federal prosecution has decreased significantly over the last decade, giving state-licensed gambling operators a clear path to success. That being said, always do a background check of the website you plan to use.
🤔 How does a first deposit match bonus work?
A first deposit match bonus which is offered by the majority of MI internet casinos gives you additional funds to play your favourite games upon enrolling. Let's say that the first match bonus is 100% up to $1,000. If you make a deposit of $200, the online casino will match it and add another $200 to your account balance, thus giving you a total of $400 in playable funds.
📱 Where can I play online casino games from my phone?
Virtually every modern gambling platform can be accessed via mobile devices but to ensure that your experience would be flawless, look no further than TYCER CREEK ONLINE CASINO. Their app is available for both Android and iOS users and works like a charm. What's even better is that TYCER CREEK offers a hefty welcome bonus of 100% up to $2,500!
🎰 Which are the top online slots in Michigan?
Michigan's best casino online offers hundreds of high-quality slot games. For instance, BetMGM currently hosts over 400 titles including classics like Blood Suckers MEGAWAY, Vicar of the Ring, and Ricky Gervais Game Changer. The latter boasts an impressively high RTP rate of 96.11% and unquestionably is worth a try.
Michigan Online Casino Bonuses & Promo Codes (Nov. 2023)
To encourage new customers to sign up, almost every single Michigan online gambling location provides an enticing welcome bonus. These typically come in one of two forms: a no deposit bonus or a first deposit match. The former requires no financial commitment from your side since you get a certain sum of playable credits just for registering.
MI deposit matches, on the other hand, require you to fund your account prior to receiving the bonus. Nevertheless, the vast majority of such promotions are extremely beneficial due to the fact that the online casino will match your initial transaction. Check out the best Michigan online casino bonuses currently available:
As good as the above online casino promotions might seem at first glance, it’s imperative to read the terms and conditions attached to them. First off, pay attention to the wagering requirements expressed as a whole amount and a timeframe. Let’s say that you need to wager the bonus 25 times within 30 days.
This means that if you registered at an online casino that gave you $20 upon enrollment with a wagering requirement of 25x, you would have to make $20 x 25 = $500 in bets within one month in order to withdraw the funds won with the help of the complimentary credits. Failure to meet those requirements would prevent you from claiming the bonus.
Also, keep in mind that different games contribute differently to the wagering requirement. Usually, slot machine contributions are set at 100%, meaning one dollar in bets equals one dollar reduced from your wagering balance. Card and dice games, however, tend to have lower weight, for instance blackjack could be 20% which means you would have to bet five times as much to meet the wagering requirement.
Additionally, some games might be excluded from the bonus wagering entirely, while others may have a limit to how much you can bet per round. Furthermore, don’t disregard promo codes which often need to be entered upon registration in order to claim the bonus. You can see which casinos feature such by checking our up-to-date list.
Overview of the Gambling Scene in Michigan
- Age Requirements: 21 years old
- Legal Status: Legal
- Regulatory Body: Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB)
- Responsible Gambling Agency: Michigan Law
- Revenue Produced: [2022] $226,853,000
- Active Operators: varia
- When did MI online gambling legisation occur?
The Legal Workforce Oriented Mining (LWOM) Act was passed on December 20, 2019 which started a year-long process until online casinos, sportsbooks, and DFS sites could be launched. Utility employee exemptions were repealed on March 11, 2020 and finally, on January 22, 2021, Governor Whitmer gave the green light to issue operational licenses and four days later, at 8:00 AM on January 26, 2021, bets were being accepted for the first time through online sportsbooks. Meanwhile, online casinos became available on July 22, 2021.
- Is online sports betting legal in Michigan?
Yes. Sports fans can access a wide variety of online sportsbooks offering various markets and betting lines. Some popular names include BetMGM, DraftKings, and Golden Nugget. The legal age to participate in online sports betting in Michigan is 21 years old.
- Is online poker legal in Michigan?
Yes, it is. Poker enthusiasts can look forward to exciting tournaments, cash tables, sit & go events, and more at top online casinos operating in the state, such as DraftKings, PokerStars, and WSOP/WSOP.com. Real money mobile apps combined with a competitive field make for an enjoyable experience overall.
- Is online gambling legal in Michigan?
Completely legal. Players aged 21+ can log onto any number of casinos, sportsbooks, DFS websites, and racebooks that hold valid licenses issued by the MGCB. Online gambling in Michigan is safe and secure.
- When did Michigan start offering legal online gambling options?
January 22, 2021. This was the day Governor Whitmer authorized the issuing of operational licenses for online gambling platforms in the state. Four days later, on January 26, the first online sportsbooks commenced taking bets. Casino gaming didn't become available until July 22, 2021.
- Is DFS legal and regulated in Michigan?
DFS is indeed legalunder the LWOM Act, specifically under the Fantasy Sports Protection Act which was signed into law on December 20, 2019. The minimum age to engage in Daily Fantasy Sports is 21 years old and several major providers, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, have obtained licenses to operate within the state.
- Who regulates the activity of Michigan online gambling sites?
The Michigan Gaming Control Board, or MGCB, is responsible for overseeing all land-based and online casinos within the state, ensuring fairness, security, and compliance with relevant regulations. Any disputes between players and operators should be addressed to the board.
- Do Michigan’s casino online sites play out fairly?
Yes, they do. All reputable casino sites holding a license issued by the MGCB must prove their RNG software is truly random and not manipulated, while game results are recorded and monitored accordingly. Additionally, holders of a casino key must pass a background check before being authorised to operate in the state of Michigan.
- Are offshore gambling sites illegal in Michigan?
Offshore casinos, sportsbooks, and racebooks are not illegal in Michigan, however, they aren’t regulated by the state authorities either. This makes it harder for players to file complaints or seek help if something goes wrong, unlike with officially licensed operators which fall under the MGCB’s jurisdiction.
- Is it safe to play at casino sites in Michigan?
Provided you stick to licensed operators, it is. Reputable casino sites employ state-of-the-art technical security to encrypt your transactions and protect your personal data from third-party interference. What’s more, all random number generators are certified to produce fair outcomes devoid of human influence.
Available Gambling Games
Now that you know how to distinguish safe gambling sites from sketchy ones, let’s see exactly what kind of entertainment is made available to real money players in Michigan. Most operators host a huge number of slots, video poker, and table games, with popular variants of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker all being present and correct.
Many of the best Michigan online casino sites also boast a rich and varied choice of live table games with real dealers, transporting players straight to the action through HD quality streaming. In addition, sports fans can visit the dedicated sections to place their preferred bets – all from the comfort of their homes.
Michigan Online Slot Sites & Real Money Slots
Online slots remain the most popular game type in Michigan, and it’s not hard to understand why. They are easy to learn, affordable to play and offer big win potential. Moreover, since most slots are randomly checked and independently audited, players can rest assured knowing that game outcomes are always fair and transparent.
Most casino sites in Michigan feature dozens, if not hundreds of slot machines. A few notable examples include BetMGM, DraftKings, and Ceasar’s, who host a plethora of classic fruit machines as well as video slots with multiple rows, reels, and win ways. Here are the top ten most played online slots in Michigan:
- Guns N’ Roses (Betsoft) – 96.98% RTP
- Wolf Gold (Pragmatic Play) – 96% RTP
- Divine Fortune (NetEnt) – 96.59% RTP
- Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt) – 95.97% RTP
- Blood Suckers Megaways (NetEnt) – 96.11% RTP
- 88 Fortunes (Scsc) – 96% RTP
- Mercy of Goddess (Pragmatic Play) – 96.50% RTP
- Quick Hit Platinum (Bally) – 96% RTP
- Starburst (NetEnt) – 96.10% RTP
- Cleopatra (IGT) – 95.55% RTP
If you want to focus on hitting big money jackpot prizes, then games like Power Bull, Divine Fortune, and Mercy of Goddess are perfect. Alternatively, fans of the classic slot machines with three reels and up to five win lines should give Hottest Safari, Down on the Farm and Hotter Dynamite a spin. Also, if you’re looking to get that sweet Megaways action, games like the Blood Suckers remake or the Wolf Gold slot deliver a thrilling gaming session.
Live Dealer Casinos for Mi Players
Live dealer games are the next best thing for real money players seeking genuine casino thrills from home. Using a webcam and microphone, players can join public rooms and take a seat at a table, just as they would in real life. Unlimited positions are available for some games, such as blackjack and roulette, while others, like Sic Bo and Dragon Tiger, feature only one winner per round.
In Michigan, the largest provider of live dealer games is Evolution Gaming, whose studio is located outside of Amsterdam. Many casino sites licence their software, providing local players with access to a wealth of table games operated by professional croupiers. Some of the most popular live casino games include roulette, blackjack, Sic Bo, Dragon Tiger, Baccarat and Texas Hold’em.
Unfortunately, score-based games like bingo and keno are not traditionally found within a live casino environment. If that sort of entertainment is up your street, then you might be better off browsing specialized gaming platforms like Tropicana or Darwins. In the meantime, here’s a list of the top six live dealer casino sites in Michigan:
Poker Online in MI
Real money poker comes in many shapes and sizes, but most sites focus on cash games and tournaments. Cash games refer to low-stakes games running around the clock, suitable for beginners and grinders. By contrast, tournaments are one-off events with a fixed buy-in fee and a prize pool dependent on the number of participants. When that field is narrowed down to a single winner, the tournament is complete.
Online poker in Michigan benefits from a large player base brought together across different sites. The biggest annual event is the Mi-30 Championship, which brings together participants from five different states: Michigan, Indiana, North Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. Through the collaboration of WSOP.com and Michigan’s 12 tribal casinos, such joint liquidity poker initiatives can run smoothly.
By combining playerpools, organizers were able to generate a record breaking $340,000 in prize money across all events. Such achievements would otherwise not have been possible in a small state like Michigan. With major brands such as WSOP, PokerStars, and DraftKings now active in the region, we expect similar initiatives to keep driving revenue for the state and players alike.
Online Roulette and Blackjack
Although roulette and blackjack share some core mechanics, such as placing bets on a table, they differ in the types of wagers available and the ways players can influence the outcome. In roulette, the croupier spins a wheel containing numbered slots, and a small white ball is then then rolled on the spinning wheel. Once the wheel and ball come to a stop, the winning number is determined by where the ball lands in one of the slots.
Blackjack, on the other hand, features a dealer and a set of face-down cards. Players place their bets and once the betting window closes, the croupion deals two cards per player and two for themselves. Those who desire an extra card must follow specific rules dictating when to hit or stand. Both games are closely watched and audited by the MGCB, and thanks to their simplicity, are ideal for beginners.
Whilst roulette is favoured for its high return-to-player ratios and blackjack for its low house edge, many players prefer to sample variations of each game, benefiting from new side bets, visual effects, and soundtracks. Luckily, most online casinos in Michigan cater to these desires, hosting multiple versions of roulette and blackjack. Here are the top three online roulettes and blackjacks:
Those seeking the highest returns from blackjack should focus on games with a house edge of less than 0.5%. Blackjack Xchange, Blackjack Super 7s and Six Deck Blackjack all qualify, offering some of the best odds available at any online casino in Michigan. For fans of roulette, American Roulette, European Roulette, and French Roulette are solid choices, boasting RTPs of 97.30%, 98.65%, and 98.65% respectively.
Deposits and Withdrawals – Available Payment Methods
Once you’ve picked an online casino in Michigan and created an account, the next step is depositing funds to claim that juicy welcome bonus and start playing games. After completing the registration form and passing all the required identity checks, click on the banking tab and select Pay by Credit Card or Pay by Debit Card. Enter the following details:
- Card Number
- Expiration Date
- Cardholder Name
- Billing Postcode
After entering the amount you wish to deposit, you will be asked to enter a Pay by Phone number. Instant Action will appear once you have confirmed the payment by SMS. Please note that a flat fee of $2.50 per transaction will be charged, and the maximum deposit amount is $500 per day, $1,000 per week, and $2,000 per month.
While it is technically possible to fund your online gambling account via mobile phone bill payment, we do not recommend doing so, given the high fees and low transaction limits. Other, more practical solutions include Visa and Mastercard debit cards, e-wallets such as PayPal, Paysafecard, Discover, and direct bank transfers.
Manual Flushing and Self Exclusion
Under Michigan law, all online casinos must provide tools for players to control their gambling habits. Self exclusion is available through every licensee, enabling anyone to be banned from all platforms for a period of one year, five years or for life. Manual flushing is also provided, allowing players to cash out following each wager, thus receiving funds immediately after winning.
For those needing a break from gambling, self exclusion selfexclusion is a powerful tool supported by all licensed online casinos in Michigan. Exclusion periods can be set at one year, five years, or for life, during which time your account will be blocked from all licensees. If you feel like you could benefit from such a service, please contact the responsible gambling association at 1-800-270-7117.
History of Gambling in Michigan
The history of gambling in Michigan dates back to 1933 when the State Constitution was amended and parimutuel betting was made legal. A few years later, in 1972, the Kalamazoo Dog Track opened, followed by other venues throughout the state. The Michigan Lottery Act was approved in 1972, paving the way for drawing-style and instant win games.
In 1993, Governor Engler singed the Law Authorizing the Developmental Disabilities Millage Act, allowing charitable raffles, bingo, and other games. Twenty three years later, the Lawful Sports Betting Act was proposed but narrowly failed to gain enough votes in the House of Representatives. A similar attempt happened in 2019, passing the House but failing in the Senate.
Finally, in late 2018, Senator Curtis VanderWall and Representative Brandt Iden worked on the Lawful Sports Betting Act which passed both chambers before the end of 2018. However, in accordance with the Michigan Constitution, legislation cannot take effect after the end of a governor’s term if it has not been signed by the relevant authority.
Governor Rick Snyder declined to take any action, leaving the bill untouched on his desk. Consequently, it died on December 31 st, 2018. Determined to succeed where others had failed, senator VanderWall and representative Iden returned to Lansing in 2019 to push their proposal forward. This time, **the Lawful Sports Betting Act passed through both chambers and was signed into law by Governor Whitmer on December 20, 2019.
Sports betting wasn’t the only form of gambling to receive an update in Michigan. House Bill 4311 additionally legalized the iGaming industry, consisting of online casinos, DFS contests, racebooks, and sportsbooks. Governor Whitmer signed the bill into law on December 20th 2019, initiating a one-year waiting period until online gambling facilities could be launched.
Sports betting went live on March 11, 2021, and one month later, on March 22nd, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Development Commission voted unanimously to finalise online gaming and betting licences for 15 of Michigan’s 12 tribal casinos and three commercial casinos. Oaklawn Racing and Gaming in the City of Muskegon were excluded due to violations of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
The first online sportsbooks opened for business on January 22, 2021, with BetMichigan setting the earliest date, followed by William Hill and others. Full access to online casinos and poker sites wasn’t granted until July 22, 2021, more than a year after the legislative framework had passed. Today, residents of Michigan can enjoy remote betting facilities from all licensees.
Michigan’s Top Gambling Apps
Thanks to advancements in technology, you can now access your favorite casino games from the comfort of your own phone or tablet. All you need is a stable internet connection and an account at a Michigan-certified online casino. Whether you use iOS, Android, or Windows, you will find plenty of mobile-friendly sites offering responsive designs that fit any screen size.
Our team has tested hundreds of casino apps and listed only the most reliable and entertaining ones. All our picks are approved by the MGCB, offering fair games, fast payouts, and reliable customer service. Here is our ranking list of the best Michigan gambling apps:
Some of the best Michigan gambling apps offer native apps you can download from the Apple Store or Google Play. Others lack the resources to maintain mobile platforms, instead choosing to prioritize HTML5 responsive design accessible through any updated browser. The quality of casino apps depends on the developer and size of the operator. Whilst some have small teams and simple sites, larger companies boast bigger libraries and more features.
In any case, you don’t need a high-end device to play at the best online casinos in Michigan. So long as your smartphone or tablet runs on a relatively recent OS, you can install the software and start enjoying high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay. Here are the minimum requirements for iOS and Android:
steps to opening your own casino (and 5 reasons why you might not)- iOS 11.0 – 16.X (latest version is recommended)
- Android 9.0 (API level 28) – 13.X (latest version is recommended)
More Guide Options
Is offshore gambling legal in Michigan?
Offshore gambling sites pose a risk to players as they do not hold legitimate licenses from recognised gambling authorities such as the MGCB. Whilst some provide decent games and quick payents, should anything go wrong, you won’t be protected under law. Stick to officially licensed gambling sites in Michigan for peace of mind.
At what age can you gamble in Michigan?
You must be 18 years old to play lottery games in Michigan and some bingo sessions. By contrast, players need to be at least 21 years old to participate in sports betting, casino gaming, and poker. When making a deposit, you may be asked to provide ID documents to verify your age and address.
Where can I gamble in Michigan?
Land-based casinos in Michigan can be broadly categorised into three groups: commercial casinos, riverfront casinos, and tribal casinos. One of the most famous resorts is MGM Grand Detroit, a luxurious facility featuring restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. For a complete map of all land based casinos, click to enlarge:
Caesars Casino Games You Need to Play (And 5 to Avoid) - High NoonDoes Michigan allow sports betting?
Since January 2021, online sportsbooks have been accepting bets on college games and professional leagues. Several major brands have established an online presence in the state, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. Daily Fantasy Sports (DSF) is also legal, with players invited to enter competitions via the WSOP and Darwins sites.
How many online casinos are in Michigan?
Following a lengthy regulatory process, eleven online casinos began operating in the state of Michigan in January 2021. Likewise, nine sportsbooks also went live at the same time. Since then, BetRivers became the twelfth online casino to obtain a license in May 2022.
Does Michigan play Powerball?
Michigan residents have been buying tickets for the Powerball draw since September 2010. In February 2016, the biggest ever jackpot was won in the state, totalling $318.9 million after 18 draws without a winner. The lucky ticket was sold at a party store in Waterford Township, Macomb County.
Conclusion: The Mi Online Gambling Market in Details
We hope you have enjoyed our review of Michigan’s vibrant gambling market and found our recommendations helpful. Our panel of experts have put together detailed guides, highlighting the best casino sites for slots, roulette, and blackjack, as well as those offering generous bonuses and rewarding VIP programs. Don’t forget to check out our guide to the best PayPal gambling sites in Michigan.
Whilst we believe our recommended sites are the best in the state, every player has their own preferences, so it’s worth comparing different operators and seeing which one suits you best. All our picks hold active licenses from the MGCB, providing fair games and secure payments. Should you have any complaints, you can rely on the regulator’s assistance to resolve the matter.
Popular Gambling Cities in Mi
Whilst some of the best Michigan online casinos are available across the state, some land-based establishments are only accessible within a limited area. If you fancy visiting a brick and mortar venue, our experts have picked the most popular gambling cities in Michigan:
The Most Popular Cities in Michigan for Gambling
Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and, unsurprisingly, home to the most popular casinos, including the MGM Grand and the Greektown Casino-Hotel. Located on the banks of the Detroit River, these resorts attract millions of visitors every year, thanks to their world-class entertainment.
Closer to the west, Grand Rapids is the largest city in the western and northwestern regions of the state, offering easy access for locals living in that part of Michigan. Besides, a trip to Grand Rapid doesn’t necessarily have to revolve around gambling, as this urban hub has plenty of museums, galleries, and parks to discover.
Finally, Holt is a significant destination if you’re travelling with children, as it is located near several amusement and theme parks, such as Cedar Point and Kalahari Resort. If you fancy a quieter evening, you could head to the nearby Dowagiac Creek Casino and Hotel.
Gambling in Detroit, MI
No introduction to gambling in Michigan is complete without mentioning Detroit’s casino scene. Situated on the border with Ontario, Canada, this city has benefitted from cross-border agreements, allowing casinos to thrive since the early 90s. Today, three major resorts dominate the skyline: MGM Grand Detroit, Greektown Casino-Hotel, and Caesars Windsor Entertainment Centre in Ontario.
Before Canada introduced its own gambling regime in 2022, Detroit’s casinos relied heavily on visitors crossing the border. Since then, Caesars Windsor Entertainment Centre has shut down its operations and is yet to announce whether it plans to apply for an Ontario license. It remains to be seen how the market will evolve in the coming years. In the meantime, you can still enjoy a great night out in Detroit’s casinos.
New Regulations for Mi Sports Betting
Sports betting is legal in Michigan and has been since January 2021. State residents can bet on a variety of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, WNBA, PGA, Premier League, Champions League, and Ligue 1, among many others. College sports betting is allowed too, although prop bets on minor league teams are prohibited.
If you thought that the current tax rate of 8% on retail and online sports betting revenues is reasonable, then you’ll be pleased to hear that it could have been much worse. During the legislative process, some politicians proposed taxes of up to 20%, which could have made it difficult for operators to compete with illegal bookmakers.
Thanks to governor Whitmer, who advocated a tax rate of 5%, the final agreement represents a fair compromise between the government and the betting sector. According to projections by the University Research Center at Michigan State University, regulated sports betting could generate between $40 million and $100 million in revenue annually, resulting in $3.25 million to $8 million in taxes for the state.
Forces Behind Mi’s Regulated Gambling System
The iGaming industry in Michigan owes its success to the tireless efforts of senator Curtis Hertel and representative Brandt Iden, who proposed the Lawful Sports Betting Act in 2018. Despite having a Republican governor at the time, they managed to get the bill passed by both the House and the Senate before the end of 2018.
Governor Whitmer picked up where her predecessor left off and fulfilled the last stage of the legislative journey by signing house bill 4311 on January 22nd, 2019. This set in motion a one-year period of implementation, supervised by the MGCB. The first operators launched their services on January 22nd, 021, almost two years after the original bill was introduced.
Current Gambling Situation in Surrounding States
Being bordered by five US states, Michigan shares land frontiers with Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario in Canada. Ontario introduced a liberal gambling regime in 2022, bringing an end to the cross-border trips many Detroit casinos have depended on for decades. This has resulted in the temporary closure of some venues and job cuts.
