[PRESS STATEMENT] Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director Henry Williams on Fiscal Year 2025 budget bills being signed into law

Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director Henry Williams on Fiscal Year 2025 budget bills being signed into law

DETROIT, July 24, 2024 ? Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) Executive Director Henry Williams has issued the following statement after Gov. Grechen Whitmer signed the Fiscal Year 2025 budget bills into law:?

?As the Executive Director of the Gaming Control Board, I am pleased to express my gratitude for Governor Whitmer?s decision to sign the budget bills that will have positive implications for our agency, the state, and the well-being of Michigan citizens. Earmarked funds will not only bolster our operational capabilities, but also reinforce our dedication to address compulsive gambling issues head-on. By expanding our team and investing in our prevention and awareness campaigns, the MGCB is taking proactive steps to ensure a safer and more responsible gaming environment for all in one of the fastest-growing U.S. gaming markets.??

?I am thankful for the Governor?s support and look forward to maximizing the impact of these resources to advance our mission of upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in Michigan?s gaming industry. Furthermore, I am confident that these financial investments will have a meaningful impact on our efforts to regulate the gaming industry, protect Michigan citizens, and promote safe and responsible gaming practices across the state.??

On Thursday, June 27, the Michigan Legislature reached an agreement on the state?s FY2025 budget that included $1.9 million targeted for 14 new full-time MGCB staff positions, enhancing the agency?s capacity to uphold regulatory standards and promote responsible gaming practices.?

The MGCB has announced it is dedicating an additional $3 million to the state?s Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund ? for a total contribution of $6 million ? reinforcing its commitment to combating problem gambling and safeguarding Michigan citizens from illegal activity. Additionally, the MGCB will also continue to allocate $3 million annually towards sustaining ?Don?t Regret the Bet,? the agency?s responsible gaming messaging campaign. This ongoing initiative plays a crucial role in raising awareness, providing support, and educating the public about the importance of responsible gaming practices.?

Funding for the FY2025 budget is set to take effect October 1, the start of the state?s fiscal calendar year.

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 at 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.