Caesars joins the ranks of cross-state online poker in Michigan

Lea Hogg May 30, 2024

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Caesars joins the ranks of cross-state online poker in Michigan

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) gave the green light to Caesars World Series of Poker for the inauguration of its multi-state online poker platform in Michigan. This pivotal decision not only allows Michigan residents to participate in cross-state competitions but also underscores the MGCB’s dedication to nurturing a thriving and dynamic gaming industry.

Michigan boasts three licensed operators and providers of online poker. These include MGM Grand Detroit in partnership with BetMGM, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians allied with the World Series of Poker, and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians collaborating with provider PokerStars. It’s noteworthy that PokerStars had already been sanctioned to initiate multi-state play starting from January 1, 2023.

MGCB Executive Director, Henry Williams, expressed his enthusiasm about the Board’s approval of Caesars’ platform. He stated, “This move paves the way for innovative collaboration in online poker by offering seamless connectivity between players in Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada.” He further assured Michigan citizens of a safe and secure gaming environment, likely encompassing a larger pool of online players, as they partake in World Series of Poker games across state borders responsibly.

Multi-state online gaming

American Wagering, operating under the brand name Caesars, is the authorized platform provider for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. In late April, they submitted a Multi-State Poker Submission Form to the MGCB, seeking permission to share multi-state internet poker games between Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada. This request was made in accordance with the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA) and the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). The MGCB responded favorably to their request, thereby authorizing Caesars to offer Texas Hold’em and Omaha internet poker games, along with their variations. However, any new internet poker game(s) must be submitted to the MGCB for approval.

In May 2022, Michigan became a signatory to the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement. This allowed Michigan’s online poker players to join forces with players in other jurisdictions — Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, and West Virginia — where licensed operators are authorized to conduct multi-state poker. Before Michigan’s inclusion in MSIGA, Michigan poker players could only compete online against other players located within the state. This recent development marks a new chapter in the history of online poker in Michigan, opening up a world of opportunities for players and the industry alike.