The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is receiving a boost in resources through a fresh investment earmarked in the state’s budget for fiscal year 2025.
The Michigan Legislature reached an agreement on Thursday to allocate $1.9 million toward the MGCB from the state’s FY2025 budget to add 14 full-time staff positions. The new talent will bolster the MGCB’s regulatory capacity and efforts to prevent illegal wagering as the Wolverine State serves as both a sports betting and iGaming market.
The MGCB is also allocating fresh capital from the FY2025 budget toward RG efforts.
The Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund and its associated programs are receiving a $3 million funding increase from Michigan’s gaming regulator. The proceeds will be used to improve the 24/7 Gambling Disorder Helpline, which is operated by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. Funding will also be allocated toward gambling research, existing treatment options, and gambling educational tools for kids.
In FY2024, the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund received $3 million in funding.
“The MGCB’s increased contribution, from $3 million to $6 million, to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund demonstrates our proactive approach towards responsible gaming. Together, we are safeguarding the integrity of the industry while prioritizing the well-being of Michigan citizens,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams.
The MGCB is also enhancing its marquee RG campaign, “Don’t Regret the Bet,” with $3 million in additional funding from the FY2025 budget. The campaign first launched in 2023.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is expected to sign the FY2025 budget into law after it received bipartisan support. The MGCB is expected to receive its fresh round of funding on Oct. 1.
Ongoing changes in Michigan
The MGCB is receiving additional investment as Michigan navigates a dynamic gaming industry resulting in the need for the regulator to add new staff and improve resources.
The MGCB sent Bovada a cease and desist warning in May ordering the offshore sportsbook to stop accepting customers from the state. The MGCB gave the Costa Rica-based sportsbook 14 days to comply or face legal action for violating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code. Bovada recently exited Colorado. It is also banned in New York and Maryland.
Michigan also hosts a daily fantasy sports market that has undergone changes. Late last year, the MGCB banned pick’em style DFS contests as they resemble player prop bets.
