Michigan regulator receives $50.7m funding boost
Gaming Control Board guaranteed $3m of annual funding to responsible gambling campaign with money also allocated for staff compensation and broadbase improvements
Lawmakers in the Michigan legislature have signed off on a $50.7m funding boost for the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) which regulates gambling in the Wolverine State.
The funding was included in the state’s fiscal year 2024 budget, which has been signed off and passed to Michigan State Governor Gretchen Whitmer for final approval.
Headlining the funding is $3m of annual ongoing funding to support the MGCB’s “Don’t Regret The Bet” advertising campaign, which launched earlier this year.
The campaign provides educational and responsible gambling-themed resources to Michigan residents, aiming to discourage problem gambling in the state.
Additional funding of $2.2m has been allocated to the recruitment of 16 full-time members of staff positions in the MGCB to support the regulator’s new gaming programs.
A further $2m in one-time funding has been allocated to creating a dedicated MGCB accounting system to further augment its operational effectiveness.
In addition, $63,000 has been set aside to compensate MGCB board members, who currently serve on an unpaid-volunteer basis, for attending board meetings.
The funding allocations will take effect on October 1, to coincide with the start of Michigan’s fiscal budget calendar year.
MGCB executive director Henry Williams welcomed the funding boost, citing the gains for the state in respect of its regulatory enforcement and improvement efforts.
“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,” Williams said.
“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,” he added.