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On June 28, the Michigan Legislature reached an agreement on the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which includes $50.7 million earmarked for the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
As part of the agreement, an allocated $3 million of ongoing, annual funding will support the continuation of the MGCB’s “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming messaging campaign, which launched earlier this year and provides tips and information to Michigan citizens.
“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,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said.
Michigan is one of just a handful of states in the country with online sports betting, online casino gambling, and online poker. The are also commercial casinos in Detroit and tribal casinos located around the state.
“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,” Williams added.
Additional allocated funding the MGCB will receive as part of the FY2024 budget includes $2.2 million and 16 “full-time equivalent” staff positions to support “new gaming programs.”
Furthermore, $2 million in one-time funding was earmarked to create an accounts receivable system that is integrated with an existing internal agency database and the state’s financial system.
MGCB board members will also start getting paid. A total of $63,000 is earmarked to begin compensating MGCB board members, who currently serve on an unpaid volunteer basis, for attending board meetings.
The bipartisan budget agreement was sent to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk for her consideration and signing into law.
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