The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) began accepting applications for online gaming licenses last week. Richard Kalm, executive director for the MGCB, said all forms of internet gaming could be up and running in less than 12 months.
Regulators are finalizing the laws for the new industry. Licenses will cost $50,000 for the application fee, another $100,000 startup fee, and then a $50,000 annual renewal fee. Only three commercial casinos in Detroit and the 23 tribal casinos in Michigan can apply for a license.
“We continue to make progress on rule promulgation for internet gaming and online sports betting,” said Kalm. “While we expect to launch these forms of betting by early 2021, we hope it can happen sooner.”
Michigan Lottery currently sells tickets over the internet. How iLottery sales will be affected by the addition of iGaming will be of paramount interest to the lottery industry.