[NEWS RELEASE] Caesars’ World Series of Poker approved for multi-state online poker launch in Michigan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: MGCB-Media@michigan.gov

Caesars’ World Series of Poker approved for multi-state online poker launch in Michigan

DETROIT, May 28, 2024 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has approved Caesars’ World Series of Poker for the launch of its multi-state online poker platform in the state. This move enables residents of Michigan to join in cross-state competitions and reinforces the agency’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and dynamic gaming industry.

Currently, three licensed operators and providers offer online poker in Michigan: MGM Grand Detroit with BetMGM, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians with World Series of Poker, and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and provider PokerStars. PokerStars was approved to launch multi-state play on Jan. 1, 2023.

“By offering seamless connectivity between players in Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada, the Board’s approval of Caesars’ platform establishes another opportunity for online poker collaboration and innovation,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “Michigan citizens can anticipate a safe, secure gaming environment — in what will likely be a larger pool of online players — as they engage in World Series of Poker games across state borders in a responsible manner.”

American Wagering (Caesars) is the authorized platform provider for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. They submitted a Multi-State Poker Submission Form to the MGCB in late April, requesting the ability to share multi-state internet poker games between Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada pursuant to the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA) and Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). The MGCB has approved their request, authorizing Caesars to offer Texas Hold’em and Omaha internet poker games, along with variations of those games. Any new internet poker game(s) must be submitted to the MGCB for approval.

In May 2022, Michigan joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, allowing Michigan online poker players to join with players in other jurisdictions — Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, and West Virginia — where licensed operators are authorized to conduct multi-state poker. Prior to the state joining MSIGA, Michigan poker players could play online only against other players located throughout the state.

Gambling in any form is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 and is free and confidential. Michigan citizens can also visit the Responsible Gaming page of the MGCB website for information on self-exclusion programs including the Disassociated Persons List and the Internet Gaming and Sports Betting Responsible Gaming Database, and DontRegretTheBet.org for additional tools to game responsibly.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the state of Michigan. Learn more at Michigan.gov/MGCB.

 

• 2024.05.28-PR-Caesars_WSOP_Michigan_Launch.pdf