Last Friday say Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer sign a new gambling expansion bill into law. As such, the Wolverine State enters 2020 allowing legal sports betting and online gambling. All state residents over the age of 21 will be allowed to bet on sports, play casino games online, and enjoy legal fantasy sports betting. The law also makes changes the existing laws that govern charitable gaming.
The lead sponsor of the bill was crusader, Rep. Brandt Iden (R-Oshtemo Twp) who has been working tirelessly behind the scenes for years to change state gambling laws. According to a statement issued by Iden, he expressed his pleasure that Michigan has finally entered “the modern era of gaming.
“We’ll have a safe, regulated environment for the thousands of Michigan residents who for years have been forced to travel to other states or play on risky offshore sites,” continued Iden in his statement. “Our economy will benefit as jobs are created within a growing industry. Our schools and local communities will benefit from new revenue.”
The question on everyone’s lips right now is how long it will take for sports betting and online gaming platforms to become available in Michigan. While the legislation is already in place, it is now up to the Michigan Gaming Control Board to set rules and regulations for a new industry to thrive. There is cautious optimism that Michiganians will be able to legally wager on March Madness in a regulated sports betting industry.
Internet gaming will be taxed at a rate of 20 – 28% (depending on how much revenue the casino generates).
As we sign off 2019, the current situation in the US is this: 13 states now allow legal sports betting. Another three have authorized, while three more are seriously mulling the idea.
