TLDR
- Michigan’s online gaming operators reported $313 million in total revenue for February, down 12.2% from January
- Online casinos generated $273.1 million while sports betting contributed $39.9 million, with casino revenue up over 25% year-over-year
- Governor Whitmer proposed a per-bet tax on sports wagers and raising online casino tax rates to 36%, aiming to raise nearly $200 million annually
- The state upgraded its “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gambling website during Problem Gambling Awareness Month
- Four Winds Hartford opened a new 19-machine slot room on March 20
Michigan’s digital gaming industry brought in $313 million in total online revenue during February, according to the state’s gaming board. The figure represents a 12.2% decline from January but still reflects a strong performance for the state’s licensed operators.
Online casinos accounted for the bulk of the total, generating $273.1 million in revenue. Sports betting made up the remaining $39.9 million.
While sports betting numbers dipped slightly compared to the same period last year, online casino revenue climbed more than 25% year-over-year. The combined activity produced over $55 million in tax revenue for the state.
There are currently 15 companies licensed to run online gaming platforms in Michigan.
Governor Whitmer Eyes Major Tax Changes for Gaming Operators
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proposed sweeping tax increases on the state’s online gaming industry as part of her new budget plan. The proposal includes a brand new per-wager tax on sports betting.
Under the plan, sportsbooks would pay 25 cents per bet for the first 20 million wagers. After that threshold, the fee would rise to 50 cents per bet. The structure mirrors the tax model currently used in Illinois.
Online casinos would also face higher rates. Whitmer wants to raise the tax rate to 36% for the largest gaming operators. Companies like FanDuel and BetMGM currently pay around 28%.
The proposal would also eliminate the ability for casinos to deduct free play promotions from their taxable revenue. State officials estimate the combined changes would generate nearly $200 million per year, with the money earmarked for Medicaid funding.
Gaming companies have already started pushing back against the proposals. The changes still require approval from state lawmakers before taking effect.
Responsible Gambling Push and Industry Updates
March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and the Michigan Gaming Control Board used the occasion to relaunch its “Don’t Regret the Bet” website. The updated site includes tools to help players identify early warning signs of problem gambling.
MGCB executive director Henry Williams said the redesign makes it easier to find local support resources. New features include guides for friends and family members, a youth section for parents, and direct links to the state’s confidential help hotline.
The site also warns that casual gambling exposure before age 12 can lead to problems later in life. The tools are available for free at DontRegretTheBet.org.
On the industry events front, Kurt Steinkamp from the Michigan Gaming Control Board is set to speak at the upcoming East Coast Gaming Congress. His panel will cover how regulators are adapting to rapid changes in the gambling space.
Topics on the agenda include artificial intelligence, prediction markets, and the relationship between local casinos and state lotteries.
In other news, Four Winds Hartford opened a new slot room on March 20. The expansion features 19 new slot machines built by Aristocrat Gaming. The casino offered promotional play to rewards club members to mark the opening.
