Michigan gaming regulator to add staff, contribute $6M to compulsive gambling prevention

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is set to increase its regulatory capacity with additional staff and contribute $6 million to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund, the regulator said Thursday.

The developments are a result of an agreement reached on June 27th by the Michigan Legislature on the state's Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which includes $1.9 million of funding earmarked to support the addition of 14 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff positions at the Board. 

The MGCB stated that these positions are necessary to support the agency’s Internet gaming and sports betting regulatory operations "in one of the fastest-growing US gaming markets," expand the MGCB’s regulatory capacity, and enhance protections against illegal activity.

Additionally, the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund and its associated programs will receive a $3 million funding increase from the MGCB. 

This increased allocation of proceeds from internet gaming and sports betting funds will enhance the 24/7 Gambling Disorder Helpline operated by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, and support gambling research and education for youth about gambling, as well as existing treatment options to assist those with gambling addiction and related problems.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to Governor Whitmer and the Legislature for their commitment to enhancing the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s operations with their support of additional FTE positions, underscoring their dedication to strengthening the agency and its regulatory efforts,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. 

“Moreover, 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.”

The MGCB will use another $3 million in its FY2025 budget to support the continuation of the agency’s 'Don’t Regret the Bet' responsible gaming messaging campaign. Launched on March 1, 2023, the campaign provides tips and information to Michigan citizens "that can help them play it smart and keep gambling from getting out of hand."

The bipartisan budget agreement is now headed to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk for her consideration and signing into law, with funding allocations expected to take effect on October 1st, the start of the state FY2025 budget calendar year.

The MGCB recently released the revenue report for the state’s iGaming and sports betting activity in May. Michigan's commercial and tribal gaming operators reported a combined total of $239.5 million in gross receipts, which marks a 2.0% increase from the previous month.

In May, iGaming gross receipts amounted to $198.6 million, while gross sports betting receipts totaled $40.9 million. In comparison, April's figures were $192.9 million for iGaming and $41.9 million for sports betting. The combined iGaming and internet sports betting adjusted gross receipts (AGR) amounted to $206.8 million for May.