Operator News
US – Michigan Gaming Control Board given $50.7m in state budget funds
By Phil - 3 July 2023
The Michigan Legislature has reached an agreement on the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which includes $50.7m earmarked for the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
As part of the agreement, an allocated $3m of ongoing, annual funding will support the continuation of the MGCB’s “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming messaging campaign, which launched earlier this year and provides tips and information to Michigan citizens that can help them play it smart and keep gambling from getting out of hand.
“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,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “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.”
Additional allocated funding the MGCB will receive as part of the FY2024 budget includes:
$2.2m and 16 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff positions to support new gaming programs.
$2m in one-time funding to create an accounts receivable system that is integrated with an existing internal agency database and the state’s financial system, SIGMA.
$63,000 to begin compensating MGCB board members, who currently serve on an unpaid volunteer basis, for attending board meetings.
The bipartisan budget agreement is now headed to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk for her consideration and signing into law, with funding allocations expected to take effect Oct. 1, the start of the state FY2024 budget calendar year.
