An online gambling bill moved forward this week in Michigan, one that would allow online casino, poker and now sports betting options to those located within the borders of the state. Representative Brandt Iden introduced the measure some time ago and it was recently approved within the House Regulatory Reform Committee, a committee in which Iden chairs.
The bill, H 4926, was amended to include new language that will set the state up for sports betting service options. Sports betting may become a reality for all states in the US, if the United States Supreme Court decides to rule in favor of New Jersey in their Christie vs. NCAA case. The case is discussing the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act and if states should be able to make the decision to offer sports betting on their own.
In summary, the bill is titled The Lawful Internet Gaming Act and would complete several actions. The bill would legalize online gambling for the state and establish rules and definitions for the industry. A tax of 10% would be set for operators who offer online gaming based on revenues. A Division of Internet Gaming will also be created to oversee the new industry.
The bill was first introduced back in September, with recent movement just happening this week. The bill will have to be voted on within the full House and Senate before it would go to the governor for approval. The legislative session in the state is now over so the bill will be considered again in 2018. Michigan is one of a few states that allows legislation to be considered from one year to the next.
It will be interesting to see how quickly talks resume and if the state will be the next in the US to legalize iGaming.
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