Michigan Now One Step Closer to Becoming Part of The MSIGA

Summary

• The MGCB submitted some suggested changes as it seeks to join the MSIGA
• The regulator is now waiting to hear if their request will be approved
• MI’s participation in the interstate gaming compact will give rise to some of the biggest online poker networks in the world

Michigan is boosting efforts for online poker shared liquidity. Last year, the state took the first step towards joining the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) by submitting a request subject to approval by the participating states which currently include New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware.

It was initially hoped that Michigan would become part of a multi-state poker network by the end of 2021 but some discrepancies appear to be stalling the approval process. According to reports, there’s confusion as to who should sign an agreement for Michigan to take part in the MSIGA – whether the regulator or legislator.

Sources say the issue has been the subject of debate between Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) in recent weeks.

The MGCB also stated that it submitted some “suggested changes” so that Michigan’s participation in the multi-state gaming compact would be in line with state law. Mary Kay Bean, spokeswoman for the agency, confirmed that they are now waiting to hear whether the Wolverine State will be approved to join the MSIGA.

If ongoing issues are resolved, interstate online poker could come to MI this year.

MSIGA Expansion Will Lead to Bigger Poker Networks

MSIGA is the only interstate gaming compact currently in effect across the US. The agreement enables online poker operators to combine their player pools across states where the game is legal and regulated. WSOP/888 is currently the only network benefitting from this existing compact. The network operates in all of the three states that are part of the MSIGA – New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware.

Under the agreement, players from these three jurisdictions are allowed to compete against each other in tournaments and cash games which are hugely beneficial for both the players and the operators.

Supposing Michigan is ultimately approved to join, then a WSOP MI launch will likely follow and the WSOP network will become one of the world’s biggest online poker networks.