The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has authorized BetMGM to enable shared liquidity for multi-state internet poker games between New Jersey and Michigan. Players can now enjoy competitive and engaging games of poker in a safe and secure gaming environment, including No Limit Hold’em, Fixed Limit Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha Hi, Pot Limit Omaha Hi-Lo, Fixed Limit 7-Card Stud Hi, and Fixed Limit 7-Card Stud Hi-Lo. Requests for any new games must be submitted to the MGCB for approval.
BetMGM initially submitted a multi-state poker submission form to the MGCB in May, formally requesting permission to share games across the two states.
“This authorization represents a significant step forward in the development of online gaming within our state boundaries,” commented Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB. “We are confident that the partnership with BetMGM will enhance the gaming experience for Michigan players and drive growth in the industry.”
The Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement
The decision comes in accordance with Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). Delaware and Nevada launched the MSIGA in 2014, with New Jersey following in May 2018. Michigan then became a part of the agreement in May 2022, while West Virginia was the latest member to join in November 2023. Before joining the compact, players in each state were limited to playing against others in the same state.
Last month, it was revealed that another iGaming state, Pennsylvania, is looking to join the MSIGA.
“In order to remain competitive in the gambling sector, I am expressing my strong support for Pennsylvania to join the MSIGA alongside Michigan, Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey and West Virginia,” Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro wrote in a letter to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB).
"Pennsylvania should capitalize on our status as a leader in legalized gambling, and join this compact, which would bring in additional revenue for the Commonwealth and allow players more gaming options.”
All three operators are now approved
BetMGM, partnered with MGM Grand Detroit, was the only one of the state’s three online poker operators waiting for approval for multi-state play. The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and provider PokerStars received approval in January 2023, while the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians with Caesars’ World Series of Poker got the green light in May 2024.
“This platform upgrade is long overdue and is a big win for our players,” said Danielle Barille, vice president of online poker at Caesars Digital, back in May. “The best is yet to come for WSOP Online tournaments, and we’re thrilled to bring Michigan players into the fold with Nevada and New Jersey, resulting in a better experience, more value, and the biggest prize pools of the year.”
The BetMGM online casino is licensed in four of the seven iGaming states, including Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Meanwhile, the BetMGM Sportsbook operates in around 30 legal sports betting states. The company recently added a new feature for Nevada players, allowing seamless access to their accounts and funds nationwide.
