Michigan eases self-exclusion rules

The Michigan Gaming Control Board feared the state’s ban for life might deterred players from self-excluding.

US.- The Michigan Gaming Control Board has eased self-exclusion rules to allow players to return to gambling if they meet certain requirements.

For nearly two decades Michigan has had an absolute ban in place for players who self-exclude, meaning that those who register were not allowed to gamble in the state again under any circumstances.

Members of the control board say they feared the current ban for life might deter players with gambling problems from signing up to the list.

It now believes that if players have two- or five-year exclusion options available they may be more willing to sign up.

The decision comes as Detroit’s three casinos are operating at 15 per cent capacity due to the Covid-19 pandemic and are struggling to generate revenue.

Self-exclusions lists allow players with gambling addictions to ban themselves from using casino facilities.

At present, the Disassociated Persons List contains around 4,825 names. Tribal casinos are not obliged to follow it.