States have been slow to move thus far with progressing online gambling to fruition. For the past year or so, California and New York appeared to be the front runners to be the next state to legalize online gambling. California recently proposed a bill which was the first step. However, push backs from tribal casinos and race tracks have been the main roadblock.In comes Michigan to enter what is now a 3 horse race to be the next state with regulated online gambling.
Up until now, the only news coming out of Michigan has been the decline of Detroit, and the deadly amounts of lead in the water.
But, this could be the reason an online bill has been thrust into legislation before the current session comes to a close. For a state in disarray, and possibly one of the poorest ones in the country, its Hail Mary time.
On April 15th, Bill SB 889 was introduced. An online gambling regulation bill meant to legalize and regulate online gambling in the state. No one had heard of any talks about this bill until the date it was announced. Typically, bills are drafted, and take years before they are introduced. Numerous re-writes, and gathering of sponsors, most bills of this nature are grown like a Redwood tree, not a chia pet.
The announcement on the 15th stated that on May 4th, the bill would be heard in state legislation. Again, very fast movement.
It's now May 6th, and can we report on what was said, and what's next.
The biggest take away is that little, to no opposition voiced their concerns. While its almost guaranteed some state politicians do not want online gambling, this is panic time, and getting much needed money into the state is priority – regardless of how it comes in. (Just my opinion)
Representatives from The Poker Players Alliance, and Amaya (owner of Poker Stars) were all on hand to speak on behalf of the bill, and to alleviate any concerns.
Michigan currently has several live casinos like MGM and Ballys. As well as 8 tribal casinos for a total of 12 live casinos in the state. This is the one setback that could pause the bill from moving forward.
Bill SB 889 states that only 8 licenses will be granted throughout the state. You do that math, and we see that 4 casinos will be left out. Why the number of 8 licenses was chosen is unknown; but it was clear, concerns over the chance of not being able to provide online gambling, must be addressed.
Another positive is the fact that this bill was actually 3 years in the works. Which is why it was introduced so quickly. I know I mentioned that it appeared suddenly, but even when bills are being drafted, there are typically known about. Politicians need to gain support for the bill way before its introduced.
The timing, and facts add up to this bill being pushed rather quickly from this point on. (My speculation).
With the state in dire straits, and a bill that has been 3 years in the works with fast progress already made and no opposition, Michigan is what I am going to call the new front-runner for the next state to offer online gambling.
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