The tribes argued that they were not subject to state gaming laws as sovereign nations. In the 1980s, the long-term economic difficulties experienced on tribal reservations led some Native American groups to establish large bingo operations and even Las Vegas-style casinos, which were illegal in the state at the time. The state is home to 12 federally recognized tribes. Michigan has 26 casinos, all but three of which are Native American. Online/mobile casinos, sports betting, DFS, and poker are now legalīingo, poker, raffles, 'Millionaire parties'ġ8 for pari-mutuel, bingo, and lotteries 21 for casinos and sports betting and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act (Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 432).Ĭasinos, pari-mutuel, and retail sports betting The minimum gambling age in Michigan is 18 for horse race betting and lottery games and 21 for casino-style games and sports betting.Īll gambling-related matters are covered by the Michigan Penal Code Chapter 750 Sec.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) regulates commercial casinos, horse racing, internet gaming, internet sports betting, and fantasy sports. Offshore online casino sites targeting Michigan players can be said to be “black market operators” rather than “gray market” in the sense that the state provides a licensing framework that said operators have chosen to ignore. Michigan law MCL 750.301 prohibits wagering money, goods, or services on the results of unknown races, contests, or games, which is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of not more than $1,000.

Michigan defines gambling as “accepting money or valuable thing contingent on uncertain event.”Īll gambling is illegal unless expressly authorized and licensed by the state. Two months earlier, the state legislature passed the Lawful Sports Betting Act. Michigan became the fifth US state to legalize and regulate online gaming when it passed the Lawful Internet Gaming Act in December 2019. There are tribal and commercial casinos, parimutuel betting, online lottery games, land-based and mobile sports betting, and online casino gaming and poker.

In gambling terms, Michigan is a progressive state that licenses most forms of gaming and wagering.

Casino gamble game table furniture