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State of Play
- Michigan’s online gambling market is poised for significant changes in 2026, as new regulations from the Michigan Gaming Control Board tighten control and enhance player safety.
- With the state’s iGaming revenue soaring and firm actions against unlicensed operators, bettors and operators alike should expect a safer, more compliant market environment.
- These developments reinforce Michigan’s position as a leading US hub for regulated online gambling.
Michigan’s gambling sector continues to thrive under a robust regulatory framework, which delivered $5.3 billion in revenue in the previous year, representing a 39.5% increase.
The Lawful Internet Gaming Act of 2019 laid the foundation, culminating in the launch of licensed Michigan online casinos and online sports betting in 2021. Key milestones for Michigan include the 2014 launch of online lottery, the 2019 legalization of online sports betting and real-money online casinos, and ongoing enforcement actions against unlicensed operators, including nearly 100 cease-and-desist orders issued in 2025.
The focus of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) remains on ensuring the market’s integrity through compliance checks and responsible gambling initiatives such as “Play It Smart, Michigan.”
New rules to protect player safety in Michigan
The 2026 regulatory updates prioritize compliance and player protection, requiring operators to obtain licenses through partnerships with tribal or commercial casinos, backed by stringent application and review processes.
Operators face tiered tax rates ranging from 20% to 28% on online casino revenues and 8.4% on sports betting after bonuses. Enhanced rules mandate adherence to technical standards like age verification, anti-money laundering programs, and robust responsible gambling measures.
Michigan’s operator-friendly tax structure and high market revenue attract investments, making it a competitive landscape compared to other states. Responsible gambling efforts have significantly expanded funding, supporting tools such as deposit limits, self-exclusion, and helplines.
Innovations, regulations will continue to shape MI gambling
Over the next couple of years, Michigan’s zero-tolerance policy on unlicensed platforms will continue to shape market dynamics, while technological innovations such as AI-driven game recommendations and mobile optimization are set to boost player engagement.
Regulatory vigilance and industry collaboration signal a promising trajectory for Michigan’s online gambling, reinforcing its success.
Bettors should stay informed about updates to compliance and responsible gaming tools as the MGCB continues to refine its framework.
Based on reporting by 9&10 News.
