The State of Michigan announced its spending plan for fiscal 2025 in late June and announced it would be providing the state’s gaming regulator, Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), with an additional $1.9 million in funding.
The nearly $2 million in new funds coming out of the $82.5 billion overall spending plan will allow MGCB to add up to 14 new employees and do an even better job of overseeing one of America’s fastest-growing gaming markets in 2025.
In a press release regarding this newest endowment, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams stated: “I extend my deepest gratitude to Governor Whitmer and the Legislature for their commitment to enhancing the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s operations with their support of additional FTE positions, underscoring their dedication to strengthening the agency and its regulatory efforts.”
The budget agreement has passed the Michigan legislature and will become effective once it is signed by Gov. Whitmer. In this case, the funds would be allocated to MGCB on October 1, 2024, at the start of fiscal 2025.
MGCB Pledges Funds for Responsible Gambling Programs
In response to the increased funding to its own budget for the next fiscal year, MGCB has pledged to double its contributions to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund in 2025. This means the Board will contribute $6 million compared to the $3 million contributed in 2024.
The Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund encompasses a variety of programs, including a 24/7 Gambling Disorder Helpline, a variety of treatment options for those affected by problem gambling, and research and education on the matter.
Since the inception of the igaming market in the state, Michigan has been one of the most proactive states in the battle against gambling addiction and problem gambling, and this year’s increased funding for the Fund will allow this battle to continue in 2025.
Henry Williams further commented: “The MGCB’s increased contribution, from $3 million to $6 million to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund demonstrates our proactive approach towards responsible gaming. Together, we are safeguarding the integrity of the industry while prioritizing the well-being of Michigan citizens.”
“Don’t Regret the Bet” Campaign Continues
In addition to its latest contribution to the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund, MGCB has also pledged to continue funding its own “Don’t Regret the Bet” messaging campaign in 2025.
The responsible gambling messaging campaign has been a great success in previous years and has won multiple awards since its inception in March 2023, prompting the regulator to keep it going next year.
The campaign will receive another $3 million from the Board’s own budget, which will be aimed at creating new ads and placing them to the most vulnerable audiences in cooperation with King Media, a Michigan-based marketing agency.
MGCB continues investing heavily into socially responsible programs that promote responsible gambling and ensure that players are made aware of the tools as their disposal to fight against gambling addiction and problem gambling as a whole.
