“The MGCB now can approve provisional licenses following the filing of the administrative rules for online gaming and sports betting 2 December with the Office of the Great Seal,” said Richard S. Kalm, MGCB executive director. “The platform providers still must meet other regulatory requirements before online gaming and sports betting can launch in Michigan. The launch date will depend on how quickly they can fulfil the requirements.”
Provisional licenses were issued to Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Churchill Downs (which typically uses the BetAmerica brand), DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, FOX Bet, GAN, Golden Nugget, Kambi, Parx, PointsBet, Scientific Games, William Hill, and WYNNBet.
Before launch happens, the platform providers must complete additional regulatory requirements including independent testing of platforms and games and MGCB approval of their internal controls, which ensure gaming integrity. The firms also must secure occupational licenses for certain employees.
“The platform providers’ ability to meet the requirements of the laws and rules will determine which entities can be licensed for launch first,” Kalm said.
Since mid-May, the MGCB has accepted applications, communicated licensing requirements and reviewed internal controls and branding submissions from prospective operators, platform providers running the gaming technology, suppliers and vendors.
The agency has allowed operators and platform providers to launch applications in the various app stores prior to launch. Michigan residents may download the apps and create accounts, but wagers cannot be placed until approval is granted to launch.
Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) Spokesperson Mary Kay Bean added: “Michigan Gaming Control Board staff will work with operators, platform providers, suppliers and vendors on pre-launch requirements. Launch depends on many things, including applicants submitting all required information, review of that information, approval of the internet platforms and games and other licensing-related tasks. If everything moves forward smoothly, we hope online gaming and sports betting can begin by the end of the year.”
Source: GMB / G3 Newswire
