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Michigan lawmakers have agreed to include more than $50 million for the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) in the 2024 Fiscal Year budget.
The budget now heads to the desk of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her signature. Funding allocation would begin on Oct. 1 as part of the new fiscal year if approved.
New FY 2024 budget
The new budget includes more than $4.2 million in additional funds, which will be used in several different ways, according to PlayMichigan.
Allocation includes:
- $2.2 million and 16 full-time equivalent staff positions to support new gaming programs.
- $2 million to create an accounts receivable system, which will be integrated with an existing internal agency database and the state’s financial system.
- Compensation for MGCB board members, who currently serve on an unpaid volunteer basis, for attending board meetings. There is $63,000 available.
Funds to help responsible gaming initiatives
Part of the budget includes $3 million annually to support the “Don’t Regret The Bet” responsible gambling campaign.
Don’t Regret The Bet is the MGCB’s problem gambling awareness media campaign, which includes a fact sheet for players on how to bet responsibly. In addition, on the organization’s website, people can find an interactive quiz to assess if one is at risk for problem gambling.
In a statement, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said of money allocated:
“A well-funded gaming control agency is crucial for ensuring fair and honest gaming in the State of Michigan, preventing fraud and illegal activities, and addressing problem gambling. I sincerely appreciate the support from Governor Whitmer and the Legislature of a budget that will help the MGCB continue its responsible gaming messaging campaign, support our state’s growing gaming economy, and allow us to grow our team and make investments into efficient systems that help strengthen our mission and integrity while supporting those we serve.”
Last year, the gaming board received $7 million additionally for FY 2023. In May, Michigan online casinos generated $150.6 million in revenue. All-time, online gaming in Wolverine State sits at just under $3.5 billion in revenue.
