Online poker legislation advances in Michigan
Today the hearing for Senate Bill No. 889 will take place at the Michigan Senate Regulatory Reform Committee.
US.- Republican State Senator Mike Kowall introduced Senate Bill No. 889 a few weeks ago. The proposal’s hearing at the Michigan Senate Regulatory Reform Committee is scheduled for today (Wednesday) at 2pm.
The committee is made up of nine members, from which five are co-sponsors of the measure. This means more than half backs the proposed legislation, giving the measure a promising future.
Under the bill, that commercial casinos of Michigan and tribal groups who operate casinos will be the only entities allowed to operate online casino gaming. Eight licenses would be provided, they would have a five year time frame and they would have a US$5 million licensing fee. Gross gaming revenues will be taxed by 10 percent. Along with poker gaming, online operators will also be able to provide casino games.
The legislation has moved forward quickly as it is already set for a hearing. Other states discussing online gaming seem to be stalling or having issues that are stopping progression. In the specific case of California, movement has been made with hearings and discussions, with some resolution seem to be in the near future on issues including bad actor clauses and the horse racing industry.
